A set of steps that engineers follow to solve a problem is called an engineering process. It is highly iterative and elements of the process could be repeated many times during a single project. The steps that are repeated could be defined and framed differently.
The first step is research. This includes finding information in order to determine needs and understanding the constraints. It is an essential part of the engineering process, which allows engineers to come up with the most effective solution for any issue.
Once researchers have enough information they can begin to brainstorm ideas to solve the issue. This can be done in a variety of ways and is where engineering creativity really flourishes. This is the stage where possible solutions are evaluated and analyzed. This could include simulation studies, generating decision matrixes or even building prototypes to test.
In this step, students choose one of their best ideas and create a plan to build it. Students then build the prototype with the materials specified and then test it to make sure it is up to their standards of performance. Students may have to retest their prototype and revise it to ensure it works as intended.
This is a great method to introduce the importance of problem solving and iteration. It is quite common for engineers to come up with a solution, test it and then come up with a new problem that they need to address. The process is repeated until the engineer finds a solution which meets their expectations.