Engineering Graduate Students Research Articles

Construction of a competency evaluation index system for postgraduates of educational technology

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to determine the competency characteristics required for the employment of master’s degree students in educational technology.Design/methodology/approachA combined qualitative and quantitative method was used to consult multiple experts through a modified Delphi method. Competency characteristics were extracted from Chinese recruitment apps, national recruitment websites and university training programs. Ten senior teacher experts who teach educational technology master’s students were consulted through a questionnaire consultation to validate the proposed competency model. The weights of competency characteristics were determined through a combination of the analytic hierarchy process and entropy method.FindingsThe results show that when recruiting educational technology master’s students, more emphasis is placed on operational skills. The majority of companies tend to assess practical abilities rather than theoretical knowledge. Relevant knowledge of educational technology, psychology, computer science and education is considered to be the basic knowledge components of educational technology master’s students, while professional skills are the core skills required for their positions. Therefore, universities need to focus on training, educational technology graduate students in these areas of competence. The study also found that professional qualities (such as physical and mental fitness) and personality traits (interpersonal communication and interaction) receive more attention from companies and are essential competencies for educational technology master’s students.Originality/valueA competence model for educational technology master’s students is proposed, which includes aspects such as knowledge, personal skills/abilities, professional qualities and personality traits. The competence elements included in this model can serve as reference indicators for universities to cultivate the competence of educational technology master’s students, as well as reference points for recruiting units to help them select talents. This represents a new dimension in research related to the employment of educational technology master’s students. The study enriches the research objects and competence dictionary in the field of competence research.

FORESIGHT TRAINING FOR GRADUATE ENGINEERING STUDENTS BASED ON SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

The purpose of the study is to substantiate the effectiveness of foresight training technology for graduate students of an engineering university based on scientometric research. Its methodological basis consists of constructivist, competence-based, systemic, activity-based and person-oriented approaches. The results of experimental work showed that the effectiveness of foresight training technology for graduate engineering students is an important factor in their successful scientific activity and the development of innovative potential.

An economical in-class sticker microfluidic activity develops student expertise in microscale physics and device manufacturing.

Educating new students in miniaturization science remains challenging due to the non-intuitive behavior of microscale objects and specialized layer-by-layer assembly approaches. In our analysis of the existing literature, we noted that it remains difficult to have low cost activities that elicit deep learning. Furthermore, few activities have stated learning goals and measurements of effectiveness. To that end, we created a new educational activity that enables students to build and test microfluidic mixers, valves, and bubble generators in the classroom setting with inexpensive, widely-available materials. Although undergraduate and graduate engineering students are able to successfully construct the devices, our activity is unique in that the focus is not on successfully building and operating each device. Instead, it is to gain understanding about miniaturization science, device design, and construction so as to be able to do so independently. Our data show that the activity is appropriate for developing the conceptual understanding of graduate and advanced undergraduate students (n = 57), as well as makes a lasting impression on the students. We also report on observations related to student patterns of misunderstanding and how miniaturization science provides a unique opportunity for educational researchers to elicit and study misconceptions. More broadly, since this activity teaches participants a viable approach to creating microsystems and can be implemented in nearly any global setting, our work democratizes the education of miniaturization science. Noting the broad potential of point-of-care technologies in the global setting, such an activity could empower local experts to address their needs.

新形势下电气工程研究生教育改革探索——以山西大学电力与建筑学院为例

新形势下电气工程研究生教育改革探索——以山西大学电力与建筑学院为例

Research on the “Project-based” Master’s Degree Model for Graduate Students in Materials and Chemical Engineering

Research on the “Project-based” Master’s Degree Model for Graduate Students in Materials and Chemical Engineering

Use of Print Versus Electronic Journals by Post Graduate Engineering Students

Use of Print Versus Electronic Journals by Post Graduate Engineering Students

Manufacturing Process and System Sustainability Analysis Tool: A Proof-of-Concept for Teaching Sustainable Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering

Abstract Decision support methods and tools have been developed to aid in improving product sustainability performance during design. However, these approaches are often developed for domain experts and not well-suited for non-expert decision makers (e.g., engineering students and engineering practitioners), who do not possess specialized knowledge in sustainability analysis of product designs and manufacturing processes. The objective of this research is to facilitate the sustainability performance analysis of manufacturing processes and systems through unit manufacturing process (UMP) modeling within an easy-to-use, publicly-available product design, and manufacturing analysis tool. To achieve this objective, a sustainability assessment framework is developed that considers a cradle-to-gate life cycle scope and has four phases: (1) product development, (2) supply chain configuration, (3) manufacturing process design, and (4) manufacturing process and system (MaPS) sustainability analysis. To implement this framework and to address the identified limitations of existing tools, a proof-of-concept MaPS sustainability analysis tool is developed as a spreadsheet software tool. The tool supports the evaluation of environmental (energy and associated carbon footprint), economic (the cost of goods sold), and social (worker safety) impacts. While this study focuses on the technical aspects of the research, the authors investigate associated educational aspects in a separate study and report tool operational performance evaluation by undergraduate and graduate engineering students. Study participants found the tool easy to use and useful in completing sustainability assessment tasks in product design and manufacturing. To build upon this research, the developed framework and tool can be expanded to consider other phases of the product life cycle. Moreover, key software tool operational characteristics and graphical user interfaces should be investigated to improve efficiency, effectiveness, satisfaction, and learnability of the MaPS sustainability analysis tool.

Pedagogy of Communicative and Technical English for Engineering Students at Tertiary Level: A Case Study in Bangladesh

Pedagogy refers to the manner and exercise of teaching, emphasizing an academic subject or theoretical concept. This paper explored the Pedagogy of Communicative and Technical English for Engineering Students at the Tertiary Level in Bangladesh. Furthermore, this paper investigated to demonstrate the holes between students’ existing level of competence and intended needs. This study imitated the quantitative approach to collect data using questionnaires. Beneath the simple stratified sampling method, the study collected data from 52 undergraduate and graduate engineering students and 12 ESL/EFL instructors from several government engineering universities in Bangladesh. This study’s findings disclosed a deficiency of practical communicative skills in engineering students. The findings also addressed the lack of engineering students in Technical English. In addition, the offered courses were not satisfactorily meeting the students’ demands. Furthermore, the class conducting approaches were inadequate to correspond to engineering students' needs. Considering the findings, this study formed a few suggestions to diminish the holes in the engineering students’ existing and target needs of communicative and Technical English.

Exploration of the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Training Program: A Synergistic Approach Incorporating Three-in-one and Four-Dimensional Linkage Training Mechanism

In the context of the new engineering disciplines, the talent requirements for mechanical engineering have evolved, and there is an urgent need for improvement in the training path for high-level professional master's degree students with a focus on future practical applications. In current training programs, many universities have already recognized the importance of incorporating industry practices and interdisciplinary approaches. However, there are diverse ways in which different universities approach industry practices and implement interdisciplinary paths. Therefore, it is crucial to develop training programs that meet the requirements of talent in the new era. By analyzing the policies of outstanding universities and combining them with the characteristics of our own institution, we propose a "trinity" and "four-dimensional" approach to the training of graduate students in mechanical engineering. This framework aims to provide reference and guidance for the instructional design and practical implementation of related disciplines.

Exploration and Practice of Teaching “Engineering Ethic” for Professional Degree Graduate Students Under the Background of “New Engineering”

Under the background of new engineering and curriculum ideological and political construction, the ethics education of engineering ethics courses for engineering graduate students must be constantly explored and tried. Based on the actual situation of the training of professional degree graduate students in our university, this paper starts from various aspects such as teaching content, teaching methods, textbook cases and comprehensive assessment. This paper probes into the course construction and teaching reform of engineering ethics for engineering graduate students, and explores the mode of engineering ethics education which adapts to the needs of our country’s own development.

Observing Architectural Engineering Graduate Students’ Design Optimization Behaviors Using Eye-Tracking Methods

Observing Architectural Engineering Graduate Students’ Design Optimization Behaviors Using Eye-Tracking Methods

A대학 이공계열 대학원생의 학습경험에 대한 인식과 실태 분석

Objectives In this study, we aimed to identify graduate students' learning experiences in graduate school, including their academic and social experiences, both quantitatively and qualitatively, and to draw implications for improving the quality of graduate education.
 Methods In order to comprehensively understand the learning experience of graduate students in science and engineering, sequential exploratory design method was conducted. First, after interviewing 11 graduate students at A University and the constant comparative method was applied. Second, based on the results, we conducted a survey of 153 students.
 Results First, the results of the interview analysis show that 'a. Deciding to go to graduate school and actively seeking information about graduate school, b. Graduate education emphasizing student-centered, problem-solving classes and research, c. Relationships for research-oriented advisors, peer learners, and professionals, and thirst, d. Growth moments’ were identified. Second, the analysis of the learning experiences revealed aboveaverage levels of higher-order learning experiences, but somewhat lower levels of collaborative learning experiences. More than 60% of students participated in 1-2 research projects as co-researchers or research assistants during the semester, and about 40% of students had written 1-2 papers. The perception of peer-to-peer interaction is above average, and relationships with advisors are relatively positive.
 Conclusions The graduate students are generally satisfied with their graduate school enrollment, major education, and relationships with advisors and fellow students. However, they felt somewhat lacking in-depth discussions with peers about the theories and techniques learned in classes, as well as collaborative learning experiences with individuals from other fields during class time. In order to provide education that aligns with the purpose of fostering advanced talents, it will be necessary to enhance the quality of education through a horizontal research lab culture and expanding experiences in interdisciplinary collaboration.

ARTICLE REVIEW

This review presents the article “The Importance of the Environmental Management System: for Small Businesses”, written by the authors Bruno de Sousa Carvalho Tavares, who holds a master’s degree in Bioengineering, and Érica dos Santos Guedes, a graduate student in Environmental Engineering at Anhanguera College, published by the Brazilian Journal of Teaching and Learning. The article presented by the author seeks to demonstrate the importance of caring for the environment in small businesses. From the notes revealed in the article, I understand that the environmental management system is important for social life and to avoid shortages of raw materials.

Engineering Graduate Students’ Attitudes Towards Social Justice

In post-secondary education engineers are not formally introduced to socially just engineering. This education focuses on technical expertise, often overlooking the social impacts of engineering outputs. Using essay prompts graduate school applicants’ views were assessed on social justice. Odds ratios and Chi-Square analyses were used to associate views on social justice and self-perceived programmatic competencies. While applicants were aware of social justice issues, their main reason for applying was to further career goals. Nearly forty percent of essays suggested that engineers are responsible for optimizing systems and mentioned the department’s inclusive design competencies 33 times. Even though most applicants reported interest in management systems, roughly 31.1% of applications advocated for systems thinking to be the primary social justice mechanism. When prompted, 96.2% of respondents reported that engineers should have a professional and ethical responsibility. Increasing exposure to socially just engineering is critical in producing holistically minded engineers.

Impact of Mentoring Relationships on Perceived Quality Of Life among Engineering Graduate Students

Graduate students’ experiences bring on unprecedented challenges, influenced by physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Through a productive and authentic mentor-mentee relationship, it was hypothesized graduate students would be more satisfied with their graduate experience. An instrument was developed using the 26-item World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire consisting of four health domains (physical, psychological, social relationships, environmental) and additional questions on psychosocial help and the graduate student’s satisfaction with their advisors and overall graduate school experience. Overall, graduate students who were satisfied with their mentoring experience had a higher quality of life (QoL). Graduate students’ QoL was lower in social relationships (p=0.009) and psychological domains (p=0.000), similar to medical school students. Second- and third-year graduate students had lower QoL than those in the first or fourth+ year. Graduate students were satisfied with their overall mentoring experience, and better mentoring experience tended to have better QoL.

Determinants of consumers’ purchase intention on digital business model platform: evidence from Ethiopia using partial least square structural equation model (PLS-SEM) technique

Online digital market platform business model designers, marketers, and retailers can further expand their marketing strategies to draw in and keep customers to gain a competitive edge globally if they are aware of the elements influencing consumers' purchasing intentions. The purpose of this research is to identify the crucial variables impacting Addis Ababa University, Graduating Engineering Students’ desire to purchase on online digital market platforms, and narrow the research gap on determinants of online purchase intention of Ethiopian consumers. This study adopted a descriptive and inferential survey design, epistemology assumption, and employed the positivism research philosophy approach to test the research hypotheses. The primary study technique used to collect relevant data was a closed-ended 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. The information was gathered from 100 Ethiopian, Addis Ababa University, graduating engineering students. With the use of SPSS version 23 and SmartPLS version 3.0 software, the data were examined using descriptive statistics and the inferential partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique. The results of this study highlighted five useful decision-making elements that have an impact on the selected consumers' intention to buy on online digital market platforms including Website Design, Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Trust, and Subjective Norms. The Practical Implication of this research is that with a clear understanding of the key determinants of consumers’ purchase intention on online digital market platforms; manufacturers, online marketers, and retailers can create effective market strategies, enhance technology, and make smart marketing choices that will help them gain global competitive advantage. This study is unique in that it uses a new conceptual research framework and the partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique to analyze relationships between determinant variables and consumers’ intention to purchase on online digital market platforms. The major finding of this research provides empirical evidence towards the key determinant variables of consumers’ purchase intention on online digital market platforms. The small sample size is one of the limitations to generalize the finding of this research. Future studies should focus on enlarging the sample size and assessing more determinant variables to get a generalizable result.

EFFECTS OF BIOPHILIC RESTORATIVE EXPERIENCES ON DESIGNERS' BODIES, BRAINS, AND MINDS

AbstractThe research presented in this paper explores a novel method for assessing the effects of biophilic restorative experiences on designers’ cognition by combining the use of physiological, neurocognitive and semantic measures. A total of 12 engineering graduate students participated in a three-step pilot experiment that consisted of (1) a stressor (the Trier Social Stress Test), (2) a destressing intervention (biophilic sound experience), and (3) a design task. Heart rate variability (HRV) was used to track subjects’ autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to track patterns of brain activation in subjects’ prefrontal cortex (PFC). Changes in design quality were assessed by the semantic space they explored, measured through a natural language processing (NLP) technique. Preliminary findings suggest that an auditory biophilic restorative experience can change designers’ bodies, brains, and minds. Results from this pilot study encourage further exploration of the use of exposure to nature-based stimuli as a method to help enhance engineering design cognition.

Transdisciplinarity as a Learning Challenge: Student Experiences and Outcomes in an Innovative Course on Wearable and Collaborative Robotics

<italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Contribution:</i> This study provides evidence for the benefit of short online courses for the transdisciplinary competence development of graduate students. It shows the significant challenges students face while learning, and provides instructional recommendations to improve students’ learning quality and professionalism. <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Background:</i> Developing wearable and collaborative robots require industry collaboration and transdisciplinary competence. Industry’s involvement in long-term programs is becoming infeasible, and the nature of transdisciplinary learning has not been explored to inform instructional practices. <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Intended Outcomes:</i> This study aimed to provide instructional recommendations based on an in-depth examination of a diverse group of graduate students’ learning and teamwork experiences as well as outcomes in a 5-day online transdisciplinary course. <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Application Design:</i> Thirty-one graduate students of engineering, industrial design, and health fields from four countries participated in online mixed-discipline instructional sessions and teams to address a real industry challenge. A mixed-methods approach was used to examine students’ experiences and learning outcomes based on a competence measure, session participation data, student journal entries, team progress reports, team elaboration visuals, and final team presentations. <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Findings:</i> Students’ knowledge of industrial design, medical considerations, ethics and standards, effective teamwork, and self-regulated learning were increased. Students’ high motivation helped them deal with the challenges involved. Daily student journals, team reports, and visual elaboration tools were found to be beneficial for determining the challenges and learning quality. The observed student progress within five days is promising, making it worthwhile to further explore the benefits of short online courses for increasing graduates’ readiness and establishing university-industry collaborations in <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">education.

Persistence at what cost? How graduate engineering students consider the costs of persistence within attrition considerations

AbstractBackgroundWhile previous work in higher education documents the impact of high tuition costs of attending graduate school as a key motivator in attrition decisions, in engineering, most graduate students are fully funded on research fellowships, indicating there are different issues causing individuals to consider departure. There has been little work characterizing nonfinancial costs for students in engineering graduate programs and the impact these costs may have on persistence or attrition.Purpose/HypothesisFramed through the lens of cost as a component of the expectancy–value theory framework and the graduate attrition decisions (GrAD) model conceptual framework specific to engineering attrition, the purpose of this article is to characterize the costs engineering graduate students associate with attending graduate school and document how costs affect students' decisions to persist or depart.Design/MethodData were collected through semistructured interviews with 42 engineering graduate students from R1 engineering doctoral programs across the United States who have considered, are currently considering, or have chosen to depart from their engineering PhD programs with a master's degree.ResultsIn addition to time and money, which are costs previously captured in research, participants identified costs to life balance, costs to well‐being, and identify‐informed opportunity costs framed in terms of what “could have been” if they had chosen to not go to graduate school. As these costs relate to persistence, students primarily identified their expended effort and already‐incurred costs as the primary motivator for persistence, rather than any expected benefits of a graduate degree.ConclusionThe findings of this work expand the cost component of the GrAD model conceptual framework, providing a deeper understanding of the costs that graduate students relate to their persistence in engineering graduate programs. It evidences that motivation to persist may not be due to particularly strong goals but may result from costs already incurred. Through this research, the scholarly community, students, advisors, and university policymakers can better understand the needs of engineering graduate students as they navigate graduate study.

International Research Experiences and Global Competency Development for Graduate Students in Engineering and Science

Challenges from globalization, population growth, and climate change require science, technology, and engineering (STEM) professionals to have global competency. However, the impact of international experiences on STEM students’ development of these abilities has not been well studied. We assessed the effects of international research experiences in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and Europe on the development of global competency for STEM graduate students from the United States. Research placements in LAC were generally field-based, involving interactions with community members, while placements in Europe were mostly lab-based. Surveys and interviews with participants before and after their trips revealed increases in intercultural abilities for students from all groups. Students who traveled to LAC had higher intercultural abilities before the trip but experienced smaller gains than their counterparts who traveled to Europe. Despite the value in community-based activities for students outside of university settings, more effort is needed to eliminate students’ barriers to understanding communication styles in their host communities.