Engineering Capstone Projects:
Computer Engineering: A group of computer engineering students developed a smart home automation system using Raspberry Pi microcontrollers and Python programming. The system allowed users to control lights, thermostats, locks and other devices in their home remotely via a mobile app. It utilized sensors to trigger automated actions like turning lights on at dusk. The project demonstrated skills in embedded systems, networking, software design and integration of IoT devices.
Civil Engineering: A team of civil engineering students designed and proposed plans for improving traffic flow at a congested intersection near the UCF campus. They conducted traffic counts at different times of day, analyzed accident data, and used computer modeling software to simulate potential design solutions like adding turn lanes, changing signal timing or realigning the intersection. Their final design included widening one of the roads to add a left turn lane as well as adjusting signal phases based on time of day traffic patterns.
Mechanical Engineering: For their capstone, mechanical engineering students developed a prototype robotic arm to assist in manufacturing processes. They designed each segment and joint of the arm using 3D modeling software. The arm included sensors to provide position feedback and was programmed to follow pre-defined trajectories for picking, placing and assembling parts. The students tested torque and speed capabilities of motor choices, and integrated an HMI user interface. Their prototype demonstrated the robotic arm’s potential for automating repetitive manufacturing tasks.
Biomedical Sciences Capstone Projects:
Biomedical Sciences: A group of biomedical sciences students analyzed gene expression data from cancer tissue samples to identify potential biomarkers for prognosis or prediction of treatment response. They pre-processed raw data files, conducted statistical analyses in R to find differentially expressed genes between cancer types or disease stages. Candidate biomarkers were validated using additional external data sets. Their findings provided insights toward precision medicine approaches for personalized cancer treatment.
Microbiology: For their capstone, microbiology students investigated antibiotic resistance genes present in bacteria isolated from a local lake. They designed PCR primers to detect various resistance genes and applied DNA extraction, amplification and gel electrophoresis techniques. Whole genome sequencing was also used to examine genomic context of identified resistance genes. Analysis showed the environmental bacteria harbored several clinically-relevant resistance genes, providing information on resistance dissemination and calling for prudent antibiotic use.
Health Sciences: A group of health sciences students focused their capstone on improving mental health and wellness services for college students. They conducted needs assessment surveys and focus groups on campus to understand barriers to care. Based on their findings, they proposed recommendations including expanding counseling center hours, adding peer support groups, incorporating mental health education into coursework. They developed an outreach plan and wellness workshop curriculum to promote mental health awareness and help-seeking among students.
Social Sciences Capstone Projects:
Psychology: For their capstone, psychology students conducted an original research study on the impact of social media usage on well-being and self-esteem in college students. They developed measures of social media engagement, life satisfaction, and Rosenberg Self-Esteem scales to survey a sample of undergraduates. Using SPSS, they analyzed relationships between variables and differences between groups. Findings provided insight on effective social media usage and highlighted needs for education on maintaining wellness in the digital age.
Legal Studies: A group of legal studies students selected a controversial recent U.S. Supreme Court case and analyzed key legal issues, opinions, dissenting views and potential societal impacts. They researched precedent cases, constitutional principles, and scholarly evaluations of the ruling. For their capstone project, they hosted a moot court role-playing the oral arguments before the Supreme Court. As justices, lawyers and observers, they demonstrated understanding of complex legal analysis and the court system.
Sociology: For their capstone, sociology students conducted in-depth interviews with local nonprofit leaders and analyzed community needs assessments to identify an underserved group in the Orlando area. They developed a strategic plan and grant proposal for a new nonprofit initiative to address transportation barriers faced by low-income residents. Their work demonstrated research, assessment, and program development skills in applying a sociological lens to a real-world issue.
As these examples illustrate, capstone projects across different UCF disciplines provide opportunities for hands-on, real-world experience applying technical and analytical skills to address meaningful problems. Students demonstrate abilities to design innovative solutions, conduct research, and develop detailed proposals or prototypes – gaining experience vital for post-graduate careers or further study. The capstone serves as a culminating demonstration of what students have learned during their academic programs.