A common distinction in engineering problems is classifying them as well-structured or ill-structured. It is assumed that classroom problems are well-structured while workplace problems are ill-structured. However, we cannot find empirical data to confirm or deny the claim that the bulk of classroom problems are well-structured. This research…

In this paper, we have combined a pragmatic and a sociocultural perspective on how artifacts are used in technical problem-solving. With these perspectives we explore how three mechanical engineering students build a plastic spider together, using instructions they found on the internet. Ten hours of video recordings were selected for a detailed…

Given the impact of engineering on society, it is crucial that engineering graduates have an appreciation of the social aspects of the profession and an understanding of the social implications of engineering practice. However, the socio-technical integration in engineering education has proven challenging and it is still a matter of concern. The…

Interdisciplinary engineering education (IEE) is gaining traction as engineering practices increasingly acknowledge the need to transcend traditional boundaries given the complexities of globalised systems. IEE, however, faces challenges that underscore uncertainties and different perceptions about what interdisciplinarity means for engineering…

The interaction between teacher and student in an architecture design studio is an important part of the teaching/learning process because it generates a kind of conversation that solidates the 'learning by doing' of teaching. This paper attempts to closely examine the jury system during the design assessment session. By monitoring the jury…

Universities globally are called to educate collaborative and ethical engineers. In response, interdisciplinary problem-based learning is increasingly used to equip students with competencies needed to solve grand societal challenges. However, complex problem-solving in interdisciplinary teams can challenge students' existing beliefs and cause…

Resilience is considered of significant importance for student attainment and work-readiness. This study investigated the impact of Grand Challenge (GC) -- an industry-based learning assessment for 1st and 2nd year Engineering students -- on student resilience. Resilience scores and psychological distress were measured before and after the GC…

This paper contributes to current discussions of digital teaching and technology within the field of engineering design education. We enter this dialogue by analysing a hybrid digital learning design for a 15-ECTS engineering design course. The course design pedagogically integrates principles from networked learning research, Problem-Based…

Self-knowledge is an important element of metacognition. It encompasses understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses and includes belief and self-assessment of one's capacity to perform a task. Cognitive skills comprise a range of mental processes, such as attention, memory, problem solving, systems thinking, abstract thinking, and critical…