Engineering Education: Research and Professional Skills Development

Engineering education is anchored in developing skills and knowledge related to a core foundation across the areas of science and mathematics as well as engineering analysis, design and practice. However, engineering students also need to acquire research skills for successful completion of the research project in the near-term combined with enhanced professional skills for more long-term development. Therefore, this research study provides the insights gained from the delivery of a dedicated module designed to enable both research and professional skills development for masters level engineering students. The module is based on a unique combination of teaching content related to developing research skills (including the literature review process, research methods, data analysis and modelling, research ethics, research impact and relevance to sustainability) and content related to professional skills (including project management, systems engineering, engineering design, lean engineering and communication). The study includes a supporting literature review that identifies existing engineering education practices. Lessons learned and pedagogical insights are identified in regard to the design and delivery of the module, which should be of interest to those involved in the development of engineering education programs.