Workplace Integrated Classroom: A Case-Study Review of a New Pedagogical Approach using a Smart City built with LEGO® Bricks

Humber College is preparing the next generation of leaders to find innovative solutions to real-world problems.

This project is centered on the development of a 1:45 scale smart city built with LEGO® bricks and is intended to be an ongoing project where each semester, students contribute to the smart city by adding new systems such as GPS, autonomous fulfillment, an automated lifting bridge, and many more.

This project promotes a multidisciplinary approach and cross-program collaboration with Humber College students and faculties. Currently, the Web Development team is working with Electrical Engineering Technology, Radio and Media Production, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Interior Design, and Architectural Technology programs. Additional programs have been identified including the Bachelor of Engineering - Mechatronics, User Experience Design, Architectural Technology, and Game Design to name just a few.

The end goal is to develop a large city (approximately 5m x 10m) built with LEGO® bricks, that is alive with activity including autonomous driving cars and trains, robots delivering packages, an active power grid, and an AI radio station providing 24/7 live commentary.