Engineering Mechanics
MCEN1000

Year 1, Sem 2 or Sem 1 Core Enabling Knowledge and Skills Technical Competence Engineering Application Experience Personal and Professional Skills Practical and ‘Hands-on’ Experience

Back
Code MCEN1000
Credits 25
Graduate Attributes

Introduction 

From bridges and buildings to aircraft, vehicles, and pipelines, engineering mechanics forms the mathematical foundation of how we design, analyse, and construct the systems that support modern life. This unit introduces the core principles of statics, dynamics, and fluid mechanics, laying a rigorous foundation for further study across many branches of engineering. Along the way, you'll strengthen your fluency in algebra, trigonometry, and calculus, applying these tools to the analysis of real-world forces, motions, and fluid behaviour.

Structured around a problem-solving approach, learning is scaffolded, contextualised, and reinforced through a carefully sequenced set of activities, tasks, and collaborative peer learning. You'll develop the ability to model forces, analyse motion, and interpret fluid dynamics in practical engineering contexts.

To bring theory to life, you'll apply your knowledge through the design, analysis, and physical prototyping of a structure – a hands-on project that allows you to see mathematical concepts in action. Whether you plan to pursue civil, mechanical, chemical, or any other engineering discipline, this unit lays the groundwork for success – supporting your development in many technical units that follow.

Equity, Inclusivity and Belonging

This unit, in line with current research and university values, strives to create a positive and inclusive educational environment. This supports improved academic performance, increases confidence, and fosters a greater sense of safety and belonging. Your teaching team is committed to providing a safe and inclusive learning experience and requires students to take reasonable and appropriate measures to actively eliminate discrimination on the basis of ability, cultural and social background, and diverse sex, sexuality, and gender.

Link to Equity and Inclusivity web resources: https://www.curtin.edu.au/about/values-vision-strategy/diversityequity/
Lecture 1 x 3 Hours Weekly 
Science Laboratory 3 x 3 Hours Semester 
Tutorial 1 x 2 Hours Weekly 

Unit Learning Outcomes

  • 1 apply the principle of static equilibrium to determine loads, reactions and stresses experienced by common engineering structures, GC1, GC3
  • 2 apply Newton’s laws of motion to determine dynamics of particles and simple rigid bodies in plane motion, GC1, GC3
  • 3 apply the principles of conservation of mass, momentum and energy to fluid systems, and analyse force-fluid interaction, GC1, GC3
  • 4 work collaboratively and communicate effectively within a team to create sustainable and practical solutions to engineering mechanics problems, GC1, GC5, GC6
  • 5 analyse engineering mechanics systems by demonstrating critical thinking, professional practices and self-management in laboratory activities, GC1, GC4, GC6

Course Learning Outcomes

  • 1 Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of fundamental science, mathematics, data analytics, information science, and computing underpinning the broad field of engineering
  • 6 Demonstrate lifelong learning habits, teamwork and leadership abilities, project management skills, and the ability to identify opportunities for career-wide professional growth, necessary for advancing a career in engineering and beyond

Assessment Breakdown

Recent Unit Changes & Response to Student Feedback

Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff.

Listed below are some recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback.

Student feedback plays a vital role in shaping this unit. Based on recent Insight survey results and direct student feedback, we have made the following improvements:
  1. More Engaging and Flexible Learning Materials
    • What students said: Some students found lectures difficult to follow and wanted more engaging, flexible ways to learn core concepts.
    • What we did: We replaced traditional lectures with self-paced H5P modules that combine videos, quizzes, and practice problems. Tutorials have been redesigned to focus on practical application, teamwork, and peer learning.
    • How this helps: You can now learn core content at your own pace, test your understanding immediately, and spend valuable tutorial time applying what you've learned with support from peers and tutors.
  2. New Portfolio-Based Assessment
    • What students said: Many students wanted more opportunities for hands-on activities and clearer links between theory and practice.
    • What we did: We replaced the mid-semester test with a new individual and team-based portfolio assessment. The project is broken into four milestones with feedback at each stage.
    • How this helps: You gain practical, real-world problem-solving experience while receiving ongoing feedback to help you improve as you go.
  3. More Support and Clearer Guidance
    • What students said: Some students asked for clearer instructions and more support during tutorials and assessments.
    • What we did: We developed detailed lesson plans and online guides to ensure consistency and clarity. We also introduced structured group formation and reflective activities to help you work effectively in teams.
    • How this helps: You have more guidance and resources to help you succeed, build professional skills, and feel supported throughout the unit.
  4. Better Communication and Feedback Channels
    • What students said: Students wanted faster ways to ask questions and receive help.
    • What we did: We implemented the Campuswire discussion board for real-time questions and peer support.
    • How this helps: You can get help quickly from lecturers and peers, share ideas with classmates, and stay connected outside of tutorials