Framework for an Engineering Design Course Using a Project-Based and Competency-Based Learning Approach

Published in: Innovation in Engineering, Technology and Education for Competitiveness and Prosperity: Proceedings of the 11th Latin American and Caribbean Conference for Engineering and Technology
Date of Conference: August 14-16, 2013
Location of Conference: Cancun, Mexico
Authors: Iván E. Esparragoza
Sheila Katherine Lascano Farak
Jaime Humberto Nuñez Segovia
Refereed Paper: #93

Abstract:

In English:
The rapid changes in technology and the new business environments around the world require the formation of future engineers not only with technical and scientific knowledge but also with professional skills and attitudes to be successful in the global workforce. Therefore, it is critical to change the paradigms in engineering education to introduce learning experiences where students can successfully integrate technical knowledge and professional skills in their formation. The aim of this work is to develop a framework for collaborative design projects based on competencies that effectively exposes students to knowledge, skills and attitudes required for global competitiveness. This project-based collaborative learning approach requires students to work in teams solving a design challenge that creates a learning environment that facilitates the development not only of the knowledge of design models and principles but also the development of social, ethical and management skills.