Practical training in industrial statistics and design of experiments in higher education

Abstract

The effective teaching of statistical concepts and experimental design is vital in engineering education, yet educators often face challenges in imparting these skills due to their abstract nature. This article proposes practical pedagogical approaches to address these challenges, focusing on teaching industrial statistics tools and design of experiments (DOE). We present an innovative hands-on learning system implemented in the Industrial Organization Engineering degree program at Mondragon Unibertsitatea, featuring a configurable car prototype and sensor-equipped ramp for data collection. Through experimentation with various car prototype configurations and statistical analysis using software tools such as R and Minitab, students engage in experiential learning that bridges the gap between theory and practice. The paper details the practical implementation of experiments, the flow of practices, and the statistical tools applied. By integrating practical methodologies into the curriculum, students develop a deep understanding of Industrial Statistics concepts and their real-world applications, preparing them for the challenges of the industrial landscape.