The Duke Engineering Design POD, a 5,000-square-foot design and learning lab, opened its frosted blue doors in August 2017.
Casually called "The POD," the space is located in the Jinny and Ed Pratt Commons, a discorectangular space (we dare you to look it up) within the Levine Science Research Center (LSRC).
The POD includes work tables and benches, power tools and rapid prototyping machines (laser cutters and 3D printers), an impressive pegboard of hand tools, and fully stocked shelves and cabinets loaded with low- to medium-fidelity supplies that teams use to construct projects from paper to prototype. Additionally, the POD is outfitted with soldering and sewing stations, a woodshop, and a media room for private meetings.
Wrap-around windows allow natural light to flood in. An overhead grid provides drop-down power (no tripping over extension cords!). Each area of the POD was designed with purpose (lecture, lounging, and work areas) and stocked with equipment and tools in clear sight of instructors and lab managers. Digital screens and a major sound system ensure all students are comfortably able to engage in active learning.
Students enrolled in the FYD program are granted 24/7 DukeCard swipe access to the POD.
They use the space for their team projects, as well as lounging to hang out with their peers. Access to the POD is exclusive to students enrolled EGR101L, EGR190, and those with special permission from FYD administration.
