About DTEACh


What Is Design?


Scientists use mathematics and experimentation to develop theories that describe observed natural phenomena. Engineers use mathematics, science, and technology to solve problems for humanity. This diagram compares the steps involved in the scientific and engineering design processes:

THE SCIENTIFIC PROCESS

  1. Identify a testable question, clarify the question, and research the state of knowledge.
  2. Generate a hypothesis.
  3. Develop operational definitions.
  4. Design a method to test the hypothesis.
  5. Collect materials.
  6. Carry out tests.
  7. Evaluate results.
  8. Conclude: answer the testable question.
  9. Add to knowledge base.

THE ENGINEERING DESIGN PROCESS

  1. Identify the problem, clarify the task, assess customer needs, and research the state of the art.
  2. Develop specifications; identify functional requirements & constraints.
  3. Conceptualize: analyze and develop sub-systems, evaluate ideas against specifications, make preliminary sketches, evaluate and refine, and select best idea.
  4. Plan and select materials.
  5. Produce.
  6. Evaluate and test feasibility.
  7. Modify.
  8. Reflect.
  9. Add to state of the art.