Who is a Role Model? An Open Discussion on the Role of Role Modeling in Engineering Education

Abstract

While role models are frequently mentioned in literature to broaden participation in engineering education, there are diverse ways of understanding what role modeling is, what it entails and what theory we can use to support our own reflections as professionals and students in engineering who can act as role models for others in the discipline. In this special session we invite participants to discuss their own conceptions of role modeling, in terms of what can be modeled, the intention and awareness of it, and how this may be perceived by others. To support the discussions we introduce Grande’s framework of role modeling, which builds on role modeling theory. The format of the session will be that of a World Café, where participants will alternate their participation in discussions at five different tables, each table with a theme related to the framework. With these conversations we expect participants to go back to their own contexts in academia and industry to continue the discussion with their colleagues. We also invite them to connect with facilitators and others at the session to continue research efforts in the area of role modeling in engineering education.