An engineering process is a set of steps engineers typically follow to solve problems. It is highly iterative and certain steps may be repeated many times during one project. The specific framing and articulation of the steps that get iterated will vary.
Research is the first step. This includes identifying needs, finding information and analyzing constraints. It is an essential component of the engineering design process, because it enables engineers to find the best solution for an issue.
Once researchers have enough information they can begin brainstorming ideas for solutions to the problem. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways and is the area where engineering imagination really blossoms. This is also a stage in which potential solutions are evaluated and evaluated. This could involve simulation studies, the creation of decision matrixes or even building prototypes to compare.
In this stage students select one of their most creative ideas and develop a plan to build it. They then construct the prototype using the specified materials and test it against their performance standards. Students may have to test and revise their design to ensure it engineering process functions as intended.
This is a great method to teach the importance of problem-solving and iteration. Engineers are known to come up with an idea to a problem, test the solution and then come across a new problem. The process is repeated until the engineer has the solution that is in line with their expectations.