An analysis of final year student project performance in mechanical engineering

This paper describes a statistical analysis of the students' results in mechanical engineering Final Year Project (FYP) at undergraduate level eight. Project marks of the final year students obtained over the past six years (2002-2008) were recorded and analysed. A detailed and comprehensive assessment of the marks achieved was examined. This included assessment of the presentation, report and progress results. This study provided an interesting insight into the trends of assessors' marking and students' performance. A gradual statistically significant reduction in student marks over these six years was noted. Reduced student performance over the last 10 years in Leaving Certificate mathematics along with the general fall of in the numbers of engineering students are discussed as possible contributing factors. Care must also be taken to ensure that marking is consistent and standard such that it fully and fairly expresses student performance