Work-Integrated and Cooperative Learning Effects on Micro-Electronics Design Classes

Abstract

Cooperative learning and work-integrated learning are the latest trends in information delivery at high schools and universities. In cooperative learning, teachers organize students' interactions and educate them to work in small groups to enhance each other's learning. Whereas, work-integrated learning, is a type of experiential learning that allows students to participate in real-world work during their studies. Both approaches help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge gained from classrooms and professional market needs. Electrical engineering is a field that could highly benefit from such a scheme. Having to be continuously up-to-date with the latest advances in the field of micro-electronics is difficult. Consequently, Several challenges are imposed on faculty members and academics who teach micro-electronics circuit design courses in electrical engineering for senior undergraduate or graduate students. This paper presents a case study of the apparent benefits and effectiveness of cooperative learning and work-integrated learning in the Electronics II and VLSI classes offered at a university. Furthermore, it aids programs in electrical engineering to meet ABET students' outcome (4).