Teaching CAD/CAM/CAE tools with project-based learning in virtual distance education

Computer-aided design, manufacturing and engineering technologies (CAD/CAM/CAE) are a mainstay in today’s industry and therefore they should be an important part in the current training plan of the graduate engineers. However, their implementation in the university environment presents certain barriers that make it difficult. In this work, we study the feasibility of the teaching proposal of the management of this type of tools through a Project-Based Learning method in a distance learning environment. The methodology has been implemented transversally in two Master’s degree subjects related to advanced design and manufacturing and has been carried out thanks to the operation of the product lifecycle management platform software by virtual machines. The practice has given very good pedagogical results in the work of skills related to the field of industrial design and manufacturing. The virtual system has demonstrated high efficiency and students have shown a satisfactory evolution in their professional training.