**2. Research procedures**

70 E-Learning – Organizational Infrastructure and Tools for Specific Areas

remains in the RCX memory until the batteries are removed. If batteries are changed quickly, this will not affect the memory. An external power supply can also be used to save

on batteries.

Fig. 1. LECO MindStorm.

Fig. 2. MindStorm NXT.

The Lego MindStorms can yell & spin, catch & run, record & play.

What it comes down to is that, with the combination of the mechanical flexibility of the Legos and the connectivity and ease of programming of the brick, students are no longer limited by execution and even those without masters in mechatronics can take crazy ideas and make them into a reality. These applications can all be downloaded from the MINDSTORMS website, and they represent just a small sampling of the crazy inventions

that these Lego users are devising when they are limited only by their imagination.

The MINDSTORMS® equipment is located in the Instrumentation and Control laboratory room 2069/2 of Mechanical engineering Department. This project reflects the results of a review of literature about engineering classes taught at other Universities and proposed courses for the University of Botswana, Faculty of Engineering & Technology in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Many Universities have incorporated MindStorms into introductory engineering classes because of their ease of use, relative cost effectiveness and ability to give hands – on experience with engineering projects while encouraging creative processes.
