STEM-based Hands-on Learning in Electromagnetic Engineering

Students mostly prefer different branches of electrical engineering due to the difficulties of learning electromagnetics and the complex mathematics behind it. If you work in the industry, you will find that the working as an electromagnetics engineer is extremely enjoyable. Engineers employ simulation tools, undertake actual laboratory work and experiments, thereby transferring their engineering expertise into products. University education mainly covers theoretical education. Practical education is primarily accomplished via project-based learning methods that are taught over a semester. Students learn design via the use of a simulation program, and if the institution has the necessary manufacturing infrastructure, they may actually manufacture and test their ideas themselves. Additionally, this strategy improves clarity beyond theoretical instruction by allowing students to practice on an antenna or a microwave component. However, it is not sufficient when compared to STEM-based hands-on learning methods, which can teach a large number of fundamental antenna and microwave components in a single semester. While STEM-based methods are employed for instructional reasons in other areas of electronic engineering, they are not used nearly as much in electromagnetic, microwave, and antenna engineering. Industrial antenna and microwave structures are far more complex than basic antenna and microwave structures. To comprehend and create complicated structures, it is essential to have a solid grasp of the fundamental principles behind antenna and microwave structures. Antenna and microwave components in the industry often use the basic principles over one component. In this regard, universities must provide functional knowledge of all essential antenna and microwave components.

Anten'it Antenna & Microwave Design and Training Kits are the only solution that offers STEM-based hands-on training in the electromagnetic field. The building blocks are in brick form and can be easily assembled and dismantled by hand. Consequently, during laboratory courses, students design antennas or microwave components, measure them, and iterate on them in order to meet the objectives that have been set for them. They can brainstorm different design ideas, use analytical calculations or simulation tools, build their designs, measure, iterate and reach the target parameters. This is not only a better way of learning the operating principles of antennas and microwave components but also gaining practical experience with S-parameters and radiation pattern measurements. Unlike the classical antenna and microwave training kits, which only allow for passive learning, Anten'it kits provide active learning by allowing for design, measurement, and iteration during laboratory lessons. The STEM-based antenna and microwave education improves the electromagnetics education quality.

As a consequence, STEM-based learning of antennas and microwaves enables students to experience the entertaining side of electromagnetics besides the complicated theory. It allows them to create iterative designs during laboratory courses, enhancing students' engineering abilities and improving the educational quality. Additionally, students have a greater appreciation for electromagnetics and are inspired to pursue careers as electromagnetic or RF engineers.