Instilling Curiosity, Connections, and Creating Value in Entrepreneurial Minded Engineering: Concepts for a Course Sequence in Dynamics and Controls

Abstract

Extant literature illustrates that complementary efforts, such as Entrepreneurially Minded Learning, add an important dimension to the training of the next generation of engineers and innovators, providing them with multiple perspectives and a pathway for linking technical concepts to societal challenges. Nationwide initiatives, such as the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN), have focused specifically on infusing Entrepreneurially Minded Learning into curriculum content and delivery, training both faculty and students to have the know-why in addition to the know-how of engineering topics. KEEN has established a framework that supplements engineering skills already taught in classrooms with outcomes that support the development of an entrepreneurial mindset. The framework is rooted in fostering the 3Cs of entrepreneurial mindset: Curiosity, Connections, and Creating Value. In this study, we contribute a series of concepts infusing KEEN-inspired modules into a three-course sequence in Dynamics and Controls. We provide an overview on each of the modules, highlighting the KEEN framework objectives. We present postcourse student questionnaire responses illustrating student perception of entrepreneurial mindset and the 3Cs as it relates to engineering and addressing technological challenges. We provide lessons learned and sufficient detail of all modules for replication in other Dynamics and Controls course sequences as well as supporting student data.