June-July 2021
This course offers a comprehensive view of engineering methodologies and practices for operational excellence in production processes and services. We will focus on methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Organization Design and Management. We will use different analytical techniques and computational tools to assist in decision-making processes and in the assessment of other alternatives, such as experiment design and regression using spreadsheets. Throughout this course, expect to learn case studies and engage with projects that will illustrate the methodology and techniques learned. We will conclude with an integrative case and a review of the “Book of Knowledge” that is used in preparation for certification exams.
Each class and topic will have its own didactic material and study guide. An online lecture will be combined with active learning by students, who will perform class work on problems and case studies. Students will also be assigned guided practices and projects to be completed outside of class. Guided practices are to be done individually and are due at the beginning of the next session. Class projects will be group assignments that are to be completed in two weeks.
Description of the content, activities, and resources for each lesson can be found on the next section.
Classes will be taught in English. Audiovisual and reference materials will be offered in that language. If needed, students can request Spanish translations for specialized technical vocabulary.
Grading will be according to the following guidelines.
-5 individual guided practices, 10 of 100 points each: 50%
-2 group projects, 15 of 100 points each: 30%
-Class participation, 2.5 of 100 points each: 20%
Additionally, the student must attend at least 90% of the classes to pass the course, which means the student can only miss one of the eight lessons. Any student who does not meet this requirement will automatically fail the course.
The software used in this class are free for personal use.
Dr. Emmanuel Fernandez has a doctorate in electrical and computer engineering from the University of Texas, Austin, a master's degree in applied mathematics from the University of Oklahoma, Norman, and a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from theUniversity of Costa Rica.