FAQ
Course coordinator 2010/2011 : I.R. van Bruinessen – i.r.vanbruinessen@tudelft.nl
Planning
How can I embed this project in my master?
Depending on your master program, you can follow this course an internship, an elective course or as a replacement for a compulsory course. For this last option a few examples are:
- IDE students can follow the DC instead of the ID4040 Integral Design Project
- CT students can follow the DC instead of the CT4061Multidisciplinary Project
Interested in how you can embed this course in your project? Contact the course coordinator
When does the design challenge start?
The DC runs twice a year: During the first period (from September until January) and during the second period (from February until June)
How much time do I have to spend on a DC project
During one semester you will work half-time on a project (2.5 days a week)
When do I have to work?
You will make a personal planning with your own team (2.5 days a week). Apart from that there are a few compulsory meetings planned (a course and company kick-off, the intermediate presentations, a final event and 8 lectures).
The schedule will be available on blackboard (link will be added when available)
How much ECTS do I get?
When you finish the project successful, you will get 12 ects
When do I have to apply?
As soon as you have chosen a project of your preferences, you can apply. When we have enough applications for a project, we select a team. We try to announce the teams at least 2 weeks before the start
Course Content
What are the core elements of the Design Challenge
- Develop real product and/or process innovations
- Solve real-world problems and deal with real clients
- Work in a multidisciplinary team
- High-tech, entrepreneurship & Design
Each project differs. In some project you will be asked to build a prototype, some assignments require research abroad, or you will be researching new materials, perform a market research, design a business plan, or other innovative challenges.
What are the subjects of the projects?
This differs each year. Visit Projects to get an idea about possible projects. In New Projects you can read project descriptions of projects are still open for next challenge (NOTE: this is a preliminary list, more assignments will follow)
Is the Design Challenge only about entrepreneurship?
No. There will be an entrepreneurial part in every project because you will be working with real clients and problems, but it is not the only core element.
Organization
Were do DC teams work?
Every team gets their own studio, located at the DCE department (3ME building – wing B – 4th floor). In every studio one computer is available for the team. Apart from that you can book the DCE-conference room and DCE-lounge for meetings with clients / experts / etc.
Who organizes the Design Challenge?
The DC is organized by the inter facultary department: Delft Centre for Entrepreneurship. This centre supports students who want to learn more about entrepreneurship.
Courses organized by this department are not linked to a specific faculty. Students from all faculties can participate in our courses. More information about this centre can be found at www.dce.tudelft.nl
Application
Can I apply with a team?
Yes. You can apply alone, with a friend or with a team. In case you apply with a team, it is preferred that you represent different masters.
Is there a maximum amount of students that can participate?
Yes. A few projects are selected for each DC-edition. Each group will be represented by 4 to 5 students.
How do I apply?
View the project descriptions (New projects) and select three projects that you like most and that suit your educational background best. Send your application forms to the course coordinator
Application forms:
- A selection of the two or three projects that you are most interested in.
- A brief motivation
- A (brief)description which explains what you think you can contribute to a multidisciplinary team
- A curriculum vitae
How many students work in one team?
4 – 5 students.
Other
Do I get paid?
No, but if you finish the project successful, you will earn 12 ECTS
Can you bring your own projects?
Yes, but these need to meet the DC requirements. Contact the course co-ordinator in time for more information.
What is the challenge part; can you win any prizes?
At the end of the semester, the DC will end with a festive event, an afternoon during which all teams present their projects. A jury will judge the projects and the winner will get a surprise. (This is independent from the grades that are given by the lecturers)
