Fulbright specialist Dr. Chris Kelley, a professor from Florida Polytechnic University (left), in the mechatronics lab at the University of Windsor with Dean of Engineering Dr. Bill Van Heyst and professor Dr. Jalal Ahamed. (KYLE ARCHIBALD/The University of Windsor)
By Lindsay Charlton
As UWindsor prepares to launch its new mechatronics program, a Fulbright Specialist’s visit is helping faculty explore innovative teaching approaches and hands-on learning opportunities.
Chris Kelley, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering at Florida Polytechnic University, spent two weeks at the University through the prestigious Fulbright Specialist Program.
The program connects U.S. academics and professionals with institutions worldwide to share expertise in curriculum design, faculty development and academic planning.
During his visit, Dr. Kelley worked with UWindsor professor Jalal Ahamed to develop hands-on teaching materials using smart sensors and to integrate applied research in sensor development into the classroom. Mechatronics, the focus of their courses, combines mechanical, electrical and computer engineering to create smart, automated systems and devices.
“So far, we’ve discussed some of the projects we've done in the past and how we’re updating them this semester, adding elements to make the learning more engaging and gamified, and incorporating some biomedical aspects based on student interest,” Kelley said.
“As we move forward over these couple of weeks, we’ll host workshops to explore how we can refine these projects and adapt them for future semesters.”
The collaboration also exchanges ideas and approaches to teaching in mechatronics, controls, automotive and biomedical instrumentation, helping to build the foundation for future courses.
“Both of us teach mechatronics courses, but our research is a little different. I work with sensors, while he works with models,” Dr. Ahamed said.
“We’re trying to bring these two areas together, the biomechanics and the applied aspects, to explore how smart sensors can play a role in improving teaching.”
Hosting a Fulbright Specialist, like Kelley, allows researchers and universities the opportunity to expand across borders, learn different perspectives, and improve the student experience while addressing global needs, Ahamed said.
Fulbright specialist Dr. Chris Kelley, a professor from Florida Polytechnic University and University of Windsor professor Dr. Jalal Ahamed. (KYLE ARCHIBALD/The University of Windsor)
“We gain more insight into how the technology is evolving, and how these smart sensors, which are developing very quickly, can be integrated into the mechatronics courses and the new program we’re building,” he said.
“How can we combine the two to create more engaging projects while also addressing industry needs and keeping up with emerging technology?”
Having Kelley visit UWindsor continues to build the already established relationship with Florida Polytechnic University, as Dr. Ahamed visited their school last year to share more about his knowledge in MEM sensors.
“With this type of program, this interaction, you can see different aspects of how teaching and research are conducted, as well as how the program operates, that you wouldn’t have at home,” Kelley said.
Faculty of Engineering Dean Bill Van Heyst said he’s been the researchers’ “number one cheerleader” in their efforts to understand how to better get students interested in engineering.
“Keeping students engaged in subject areas is paramount to the outcome of their learning,” he said.
“The more they are engaged, the more they retain, the more passionate they become, and they’re going to take that to the workforce.”
He also highlighted how programs like this foster cross-border collaboration between the U.S. and Canada, laying the groundwork for ongoing partnerships.
“Down the road, these two will probably collaborate on research grants and submit proposals together,” he said.
“Eventually, they may be exchanging students between our two institutions, which would be fantastic. That’s what we want to give our students, opportunities not just here in Windsor, but around the world.”