Engineering Program Research Articles

Integrating Extended Reality in undergraduate engineering programmes: operational feasibility and descriptive analysis of student perspectives

Integrating Extended Reality in undergraduate engineering programmes: operational feasibility and descriptive analysis of student perspectives

Project-based Learning in a Geomatics Bachelor Program: A Digital Heritage Preservation Project

Abstract. Like in most bachelor engineering programs, the education of geomatics students typically begins with an extensive theoretical introduction covering fundamental subjects. The general objective of the bachelor program is to cultivate geomatics engineers with robust hands-on knowledge. Nevertheless, the progression to a stage where students can independently engage in exercises with minimal supervision is a long process. Although field work-based practices are dominant in this field, they often entail activities limited to testing, experimenting, and the application of basic theories. While this approach is efficient in imparting routine knowledge, it may lead to the fragmentation of acquired knowledge, thereby lacking a comprehensive understanding of the broader significance and context. Students often encounter more complex challenges when commencing work on their bachelor thesis, leading to a steep learning curve within a constrained timeframe. This late exposure to real-world tasks can be a limiting factor, hindering a smoother transition from education to professional work. This paper provides a case study of project-based learning (PjBL) within a geomatics bachelor program. Specifically, it discusses a digital heritage preservation project where students documented an old Norwegian log house throughout the autumn semester of 2023. The outcomes of this learning approach are analyzed with the help of the key features of the PjBL methodology, focusing on students' learning outcomes and their assessment measures.

Meta4CBC: Metamodel for Competency-Based Curriculum Design in Higher Education

Meta4CBC is proposed as an innovative metamodel for competency-based curriculum design in higher education, addressing the critical need to adapt curricula to contemporary challenges driven by globalization, technological advancement, and climate change. Inspired by the Business Motivation Model and Semantics of Business Vocabulary and Business Rules metamodels, Meta4CBC seeks to overcome the limitations of current CBCD models by providing a coherent structure that integrates curriculum components at supra, macro, meso, micro, and nano levels and establishes a common language that facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration. The proposal promotes curriculum alignment and coherence while supporting the development of software tools to assist in curriculum design, automate repetitive tasks, and provide data analysis for informed decision-making. The validation of Meta4CBC was conducted through a multi-step methodology involving proof of concept, expert judgment, and practical application. After defining the components through a systematic literature review, the metamodel was tested in the Computer Engineering program at the University of La Frontera. This testing verified its adaptability and alignment across curriculum levels. Experts from various Chilean universities reviewed the model, providing feedback for refinement.

The Giant Leap in the Development of Higher Engineering Education in China

Purpose This study discusses the development of higher engineering education and its future direction following the increased enrollment in higher education institutions in China. Design/Approach/Methods By compiling and analyzing corresponding policies and historical and statistical data, the large-scale expansion process and quality enhancement pathways of China's higher engineering education are summarized. Additionally, probable future development scenarios are identified based on the current situation. Findings Ever since the expansion of higher education enrollment in China, higher engineering education has experienced rapid expansion in scale and quality, leading China toward becoming a prolific global leader in this aspect. Through a series of national engineering educational reforms, such as “Engineering Program Accreditation,” “Outstanding Engineer Plan,” and “New Engineering Construction,” China has sought to improve the quality of engineering talent to “transition from a large state to a powerful state” in higher engineering education. Therefore, this development process can be considered a “golden age” of higher engineering education development in China. Going forward, China's higher engineering education should focus on continuous quality improvement, strengthen international exchanges and collaboration, and expansion into new engineering fields. Originality/Value This study systematically analyzes the large-scale expansion and quality enhancement routes of China's higher engineering education. By enhancing the understanding of such education, this study can serve as a reference for domestic and foreign engineering education researchers.

The Experiences of Women and Other Minoritized Engineering Students at HBCUs: A Descriptive Phenomenological Study

This article explores the unique experiences and challenges faced by women, African Americans, Hispanic/Latino, Native Americans/Alaskan Natives (AHN) AHN students pursuing an engineering degree program. Drawing from existing research and literature, the article examines issues such as underrepresentation, biases, and stereotypes that can impact the academic and professional experiences of these students. It also highlights strategies and resources that women and AHN students utilize to navigate these challenges and succeed in the field of engineering. The purpose of this phenomenological descriptive qualitative study is to explore AHN engineering students' experiences as they pursued their engineering programs, and to contribute to efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the engineering profession.

Exploration on Innovation Platforms Construction for Improving the Talent Cultivation Quality of Agricultural Built Environment and Energy Engineering Major in Agricultural University

Amidst the global transformation of energy structures and the acceleration of agricultural modernization, the cultivation of talents confronts unprecedented challenges and opportunities for agricultural built environment and energy engineering (ABEEE) programs at agricultural universities. This paper focuses on the role and practical pathways of innovative platform construction in enhancing the quality of talent cultivation in this field, aiming to explore an educational reform path that aligns with the development needs of the new era. Initially, the paper analyzes the current issues in ABEEE professional education at agricultural universities, including the disconnection between theory and practice, inadequate cultivation of innovation capabilities and the lack of distinct professional characteristics et al. Based on these insights, the necessity and urgency of constructing innovative platforms is emphasized in this work. It can effectively promote interdisciplinary integration, bolster practical operation skills for students, further strengthen their scientific research and innovation capabilities by establishing industry-university collaboration platforms with enhanced professional characteristics, scientific research innovation platforms, and virtual simulation teaching platforms et al. Finally, the necessary of continuously optimizing the functions and services of these innovative platforms, strengthening exchanges and cooperation with other higher education institutions are highlighted according to the current existing problems and challenges. This research can not only provide a novel perspective and thoughts for educational reform in agricultural universities, but also serves as a reference for talent cultivation model innovation in other fields.

Bridging the gap: Analyzing skill demands in Kuwait’s electrical engineering job market to enhance employability of graduates

The rising number of unemployed engineers in Kuwait is a concerning trend, largely stemming from a mismatch between the skills worked on in university and the expectations of employers. The present research seeks to address this issue by examining the skill demands within the electrical engineering sector of Kuwait’s job market. Through a comprehensive analysis of over 128 job listings gathered for 6 months in 2023 from various online platforms, this study aims to pinpoint the key competencies sought by employers to enhance engineers’ employability. By bridging this gap between academia and industry, our recommendations aim to inform curriculum adjustments, enabling educational institutions to tailor engineering programs to meet national workforce needs effectively. This study’s insights are not only valuable to academia but also extend to human resources consultants and recruiters, offering crucial insights into the specific skill sets sought by employers in Kuwait’s engineering sector.

Bridging Between High School and University: Assessment of Students’ Readiness to First-Year Engineering Programs

This descriptive case study uses self-assessment tools to explore 26 prospective students’ preparedness regarding their knowledge and competencies for entering the first year of engineering programs at a large, research-intensive Canadian university. We aim to provide insight for developing the Brigde2Engg (B2E) Program to empower and support students in their transition to university. Applying Conley’s college readiness model as a theoretical framework, findings from this study reveal that most students appear confident about their knowledge and skill preparedness for the first-year engineering programs, including their critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, and understanding of engineering professions. However, they are less confident in physics and the use of engineering tools. Therefore, we suggest that, when they choose to participate in the bridging program, these students should focus mainly on the subject they deem inadequate. Results also show that an introduction to engineering tools is essential to familiarize students with the programming and spreadsheet software they will use throughout their university programs.

Challenge-Based Learning and Scrum as Enablers of 4.0 Technologies in Engineering Education

Incorporating Industry 4.0 technologies in higher education is crucial for preparing future engineers in a digitalized industrial environment. A challenge-based educational model and the agile Scrum methodology were implemented to move in this direction, combined with the use of Industry 4.0 technologies. New physical and virtual laboratories were enabled with Industry 4.0 hardware/software equipment. The engineering academic programs at the second-largest university in Chile were modified, and all the academic staff involved were trained. Based on conducting challenges that Industry 4.0 technologies can address, this study presents the results of implementing a new educational model and students’ response to freely adopting new technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and collaborative robotics. The results showed a high rate of acceptance and use of 4.0 technologies by the students, so the proposed methodology could be extrapolated to other engineering programs worldwide.

Student Perceptions of Project-Based Learning When Studying ‘Information Systems’ in an ICT Engineering Program: Taking Advantage of Active Learning

This article presents a case study on the way of teaching and learning the subject ‘Information Systems’ to ICT (Information and Communication Technology) engineering students, which is based on an active learning strategy implemented through a Project-Based Learning (PjBL) method, a practice that facilitates knowledge acquisition in addition to enhancing diverse learning outcomes such as teamwork, critical thinking, and analysis, or communication skills. This study aims to present the students’ perceptions once they have undertaken the whole subject, to better understand the different positive and negative elements associated with PjBL implementation according to their opinions. Students’ perceptions of PjBL were obtained through a survey utilizing the Bipolar Laddering (BLA) technique, which allows them to identify their experiences in terms of both beneficial and challenging aspects, as well as potential improvements to their experiences. On one hand, the most relevant findings on their PjBL experience assessed as positive are presented as follows: to work by themselves on a real project related to the working world; to be able to apply the theoretical topics explained during the class sessions; to have highly talented instructors; to experience a very dynamic and effective way of learning; to give a final presentation to their classmates and the instructors; and to work in groups. On the other hand, when analyzing the core negative perceptions, the following ones were highlighted by the surveyed students: undertaking just a single project; having an overly theoretical context; and having too much freedom, which could lead to confusion.

Assessment Technologies for Enhancing Civil Engineering Education: A Comprehensive Review

This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of assessment technologies used to enhance civil engineering education. Drawing from a selection of recent research papers published between 2020 and 2024, the paper synthesizes insights into various assessment methods and their impact on student learning outcomes in civil engineering programs. The review covers diverse topics such as project-based learning, virtual laboratories, online assessments, mobile learning, gamification, and augmented reality. Each paper is analysed for its methodology, key findings, and implications for civil engineering education. Through this review, the paper aims to offer educators and policymakers valuable insights into the effectiveness of assessment technologies in fostering student engagement and improving learning experiences in civil engineering programs. Keywords: Assessment technologies, Civil engineering education, Project-based learning, Online assessments, Mobile learning

Optimizing Sheet Metal Formation through Advanced Hydroforming Simulation Technique

In this study, we investigate into the simulation of sheet metal hydroforming for crafting the cap of the axle-hub of a tip trailer within our manufacturing facility. This cap serves a crucial role in safeguarding wheel bearings from the detrimental effects of dust, sand, and dirt. The motivation for this work arises from the challenges encountered during the fixation of a conventional dust cap, which often falls off when subjected to pressure or threading, particularly when the tractor is in motion. The innovative approach pursued in this research involves the utilization of lightweight aluminum sheet metal for cap production, owing to its facile formability. The cap design incorporates four evenly distributed holes around its circumference and secures to the flange using screws. Prior to the manufacturing phase, a simulation of the cap-forming process was conducted using ANSYS Model 15, a computer-aided engineering program. The necessary models were crafted in CATIA, a computer-aided design program, streamlining the entire process to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize manpower requirements. The simulation encompassed three different thicknesses (1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm) for two distinct aluminum alloys, namely 1100 and 5652. The objective was to discern the optimal alloy for the forming process. Essential mechanical properties, including ultimate tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and yield stress, were input into the ANSYS program to accurately reflect the materials' behavior during forming. The outcomes of our investigation revealed that aluminum alloy 5652 outperformed 1100 in terms of formability. The former exhibited a forming pressure of 300.2 MPa, while the latter required 298.3 MPa for the same forming depth (40 mm) across all three thickness variations. Additionally, the study demonstrated that 5652 is not only more efficient but also safer and more resilient than 1100.

Exploring mental health experiences and supports among international engineering undergraduate students – insights to inform university support

ABSTRACT This study explores the mental health perceptions, expectations for mental healthcare, and use of existing mental health services among international engineering students at a Western Canadian university. Employing a phenomenological qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 international undergraduate engineering students to understand their mental health challenges and service usage. The thematic analysis revealed three significant themes: students’ understanding of mental health; their experiences within the engineering programme, and recommendations to enhance and facilitate a positive mental health experience at the university. Findings suggest that mental healthcare for international engineering students should be responsive to the students’ unique needs, providing support and accessible services during their transition from their home countries and recognising the impact of the environmental and cultural factors on their experiences as members of the Faculty of Engineering and the broader university community.

Decision-Making Method for the Evaluation of Success Factors of ABET Accreditation

ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), formerly known as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, accredits university programs in computers, engineering, and engineering technology. Although ABET accreditation is optional, graduates of programs with this accreditation are regarded as having knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours that are comparable to those of other countries. The ABET Accreditation process has always been quite structured and methodical. It has helped identify and fix any inadequacies by comparing different engineering and computer programs to worldwide standards. The Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) approach was used in this study to ascertain the relative value of the ABET process’s success elements. An application case study, conducted at a Turkish institution, serves as an illustration.

Enhancing stroke knowledge among youth: Insights from Stroke Busters

IntroductionCommunity stroke education has shown promising results with sustained stroke knowledge and behavioral changes; however less is known about the effects of targeted education towards youth. We developed an interactive educational program for high school students, Stroke Busters, that focuses on stroke prevention, recognizing warning signs, and the importance of seeking prompt care. MethodsThis is a prospective cohort study where students are offered a stroke education program, ‘Stroke Busters’, through the Yale Pathways to Science Program, a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) pipeline program for high school students living near New Haven, Connecticut. Students filled out a stroke knowledge survey before, after, and 8-months-post program. Data from four separate sessions were collected (two 5-day programs and two 1-day programs) and scores were compared. Students who returned to help teach were also evaluated with an additional post-test. ResultsThe average pre-program score was 36.9% and post-program was 62.5% (N=67, p<0.001) across all sessions. Between sessions, scores were not significantly different. 8-month post-program scores (n=5) were not significantly different from immediate post-program scores. Students in the role of teaching-assistant had post-program scores of 85.7%. DiscussionHigh school students who participated in Stroke Busters retained stroke knowledge for up to 8 months. The 1-day program showed similar results to the 5-day program, which suggests providing shorter programs to high school students may represent a more feasible opportunity for community stroke prevention. Additionally, including students in a teaching role is a promising way to increase enthusiasm and stroke knowledge for youth. ConclusionStroke Busters was successfully able to educate high school youth about stroke and programs of both 1 and 5-day are equally effective.

E-Module Innovation: A Product-Based Approach to Database Practicum

&lt;span lang="EN-US"&gt;This research aims to develop a product-based e-module for database practice in the Software Engineering (RPL) program at SMK Negeri 1 Sintuk Toboh Gadang. The Research and Development (R&amp;amp;D) method using the 4D model (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate) was employed, involving 23 students as subjects. The study resulted in a valid, practical, and effective e-module that aligns with curriculum demands and fosters students' creativity. Validation tests demonstrated high validity and reliability across content, presentation, and format aspects. Practicality tests yielded a Reproducibility Coefficient (Kr) of 0.98 and a Scalability Coefficient (Ks) of 0.95, confirming the e-module's usability. The effectiveness of the e-module was evidenced by significant improvements in student learning outcomes, with an N-Gain score of 0.73, indicating high effectiveness. The findings suggest that the product-based e-module is a valuable tool for enhancing practical learning in database subjects, promoting independent and creative learning among students&lt;/span&gt;

Evaluation of the Implementation of Project-Based-Learning in Engineering Programs: A Review of the Literature

Project-Based Learning (PBL), as an experiential methodology, improves learning outcomes and competencies (technical and non-technical) in engineering students. The Conceive–Design–Implement–Operate (CDIO) approach, adopted globally in engineering education, is based on PBL but expands the curriculum framework. Developed by MIT and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Sweden, CDIO focuses on the entire life cycle of engineering projects to train engineers so that they are capable of applying knowledge in real-life situations. Integrating CDIO and PBL into engineering curricula requires changes in teaching methodologies, teacher training and workspaces. The literature has explored their combination, highlighting shared values and mutual reinforcements. An assessment model is crucial for implementing PBL and evidencing improvement in student and course skills. Only through assessment and the cycle of continuous improvement will the adoption of PBL in engineering programs be advanced. A systematic review of the literature is proposed to identify effective methods in the evaluation of educational programs based on PBL, analyzing related research areas and evaluations according to the CDIO approach.

Synchronization Optimization of Pipeline Layout and Pipe Diameter Selection in a Drip Irrigation Network System Based on the Jaya Algorithm

To address the complexity and high computational burden in the design of drip irrigation networks, the Jaya algorithm is utilized to study factors affecting project costs, including equipment and pipeline depreciation and the operation and management costs of the irrigation area. A mathematical model of synchronization optimal design of pipe layout and pipe diameter selection in a drip irrigation network system with constraints on pipe diameter, flow velocity, and pipe pressure is established. Using an irrigation district in Xinjiang, China, as an example, the Jaya algorithm optimization design program was run independently 50 times, and the relative deviation of each optimization result from the optimal solution was calculated. The results show that the annual cost per unit area o is reduced to 635.99 RMB/hm2, a 25.34% reduction compared to the original engineering program, and the investment-saving effect is obvious. The relative deviation is controlled within 3%, which shows that the algorithm has stable convergence performance and can meet the requirements of actual engineering design. The Jaya algorithm eliminates the need for parameter tuning, and it excels in cost savings, algorithm stability, and computational accuracy, making it an effective method for the single-objective optimization design of drip irrigation networks.

Exploring the Enterprise Knowledge of Black Males in Undergraduate Engineering Programs

Exploring the Enterprise Knowledge of Black Males in Undergraduate Engineering Programs

Research Training: Unraveling the Research Methodological Design Challenge in Engineering Programs

Research Training: Unraveling the Research Methodological Design Challenge in Engineering Programs