Overview

Learners explore how computational methods support the sensing and design of physical systems. The project may focus on an image-based task or on a vibration/acoustics problem, rather than requiring both to be completed. Modeling, experimental reasoning, and technical communication provide a common research foundation.

Learning goals and possible work

Proposed learning outcomes for this program example:

  • Formulate a measurable engineering question and a model or experiment.
  • Implement and evaluate a bounded vision or acoustics study.
  • Present results with explicit assumptions and reproducible documentation.

Illustrative learning sequence

The sequence below illustrates how this program’s content can be organized. Topics, pacing, and project depth are adapted for each offering. This is not an archived record of a specific cohort’s weekly syllabus.

  1. 01Intelligent physical systems and a focused research question
  2. 02Literature review, variables, and measurement planning
  3. 03Foundations of image processing and data representation
  4. 04Feature extraction and introductory machine learning
  5. 05Physical models of vibration and sound
  6. 06Selecting a vision or acoustics project pathway
  7. 07Building a baseline model or approved experimental setup
  8. 08Testing, validation, and sources of error
  9. 09Interpreting results and improving the study
  10. 10Technical report, research poster, and presentation

Related program examples