A first-year integrated project-based course: Students' experience and engagement working in teams amid COVID-19

The Faculty of Engineering at McMaster University implemented its largest curricular change through the PIVOT. First-year engineering students now take a 13-unit ENGINEER 1P13 that integrates multiple interdisciplinary projects allowing students to apply first year engineering theory and knowledge directly. This paper examines the teamwork and collaboration skills of ENGINEER 1P13 students by analyzing to what extent the course’s pedagogical approach helped students engage with their team, achieve the course learning outcomes and master the related skills. Data from three student surveys show that most students reported a high level of engagement with their team/group and agreed that they achieved the learning outcomes and mastered skills related to teamwork abilities. Also, students valued the opportunity to work in teams to meet new people and improve their overall learning experience. However, students also mentioned they struggled with how to address an imbalance in team member contributions to the projects.