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Session 1532

NEW PARADIGMS IN THE DESIGN OF ENGINEERING CURRICULA

M. N. BORGES¹, F. H. VASCONCELOS², M. LEWIS3 ¹FUNREI - Federal IHE/2UFMG/3University of Huddersfield

Abstract This paper presents New Paradigms concerning the design of curricula for engineering degree courses. It sets up the philosophical bases of curriculum design and outlines the Learning Outcomes Theory considered essential for the development of a new consistent pedagogical approach. Some course structures, being so fragmented, are labelled as the cause of the difficulties faced by some engineering courses. An alternative course structure is presented, which allows for the new principles and concepts, and consequently might make advances in engineering education. The proposal is focused on the Systematic Planning Approach and brings an instrument - a Knowledge Based System which embodies the new principles and concepts - to pragmatically assist course designers in the development of their tasks. Some preliminary results from ongoing experiences are discussed.

Introduction

An evolutionary revolution has been taking place in the world due to the impact of technology in general and information technology in particular, both of which are expanding at ever increasing rates. Moreover, the engineers of the next century will face a challenging world which requires a fully prepared professional regarding knowledge, abilities and attitudes. This has brought about an awareness of the need to incorporate new principles and concepts in engineering education where the design of the curriculum plays a crucial role.

Among the new challenges higher education has been facing recently, the Internet is one of the most revolutionary. Since the early nineties when millions started to access the Net it has become a source of learning by many of its users. It is believed that it will not take too long for it to be used as a mass-media in form of formal education, even at tertiary level. Furthermore, the new economic order has been imposing changes in the market place demanding that engineers be prepared to change functions and even careers throughout their professional life span.

This paper addresses these issues by describing a novel methodology of designing curriculum. It advocates that by using a Knowledge Based System as a partner it is possible to achieve a more effective and manageable curriculum design and implementation. The flexibility of the Knowledge Based System is capable of allowing for local, national or international needs which

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Borges, M. N., & Vasconcelos, F. H., & Lewis, M. (1997, June), New Paradigms In The Design Of Engineering Curricula Paper presented at 1997 Annual Conference, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 10.18260/1-2--6710