Embedding sustainable development (SD) and interdisciplinary project based learning (PBL) in the EPS: an opportunity to break down silos in engineering

Research output: Chapter in Book/Published conference outputChapter

Abstract

Tackling multi-faceted sustainable development (SD) problems requires interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approaches to problem solving. Traditionally, and over time, engineering education in HE has become increasingly siloed, with engineers from a majority of disciplines being directed towards attaining only a set of subject-specific knowledge and skills. Together with using mainly closed brief assignments and analysis problems, this leads to graduates with narrow sets of perspectives and skills that are neither equipped with the tools that are required to tackle the present or future SD issues, nor the transferrable skills essential to business environments and desired by industry. This case study showcases our approach within Aston University’s College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (EPS) in using interdisciplinary open brief problem-baed learning (PBL) to break down the barriers between different engineering subject groups, while stimulating higher levels of thinking through utilisation of design problems related to real-life SD issues in developing countries.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication Business Teaching Beyond Silos
Subtitle of host publicationInterdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary Learning
PublisherEdward Elgar
Chapter6
Pages75-78
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)9781802209037
ISBN (Print)9781802209020
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 10 Feb 2023

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