An experiential learning-integrated framework to improve problem-solving skills of engineering graduates
Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning
ISSN: 2042-3896
Article publication date: 23 August 2021
Issue publication date: 9 March 2022
Abstract
Purpose
Problem solving skills (PSS), an important component of learning outcomes, is one of the desirable skills in engineering graduates as stated by many employers, researchers and government bodies in India for a strong foothold in professional world. There is a need to develop comprehensive understanding and integration of theory (concept) and practice (process) of PSS in the context of experiential learning (EL).
Design/methodology/approach
The present study is qualitative in nature using a conceptual research design focussing on synthesis and model building framework. The key elements of the study are PSS, EL and their integration. The study seeks to develop conceptual integration of PSS across multiple theories and perspectives. It offers an enhanced view of a concept of PSS by summarising and integrating extant knowledge. It presents the complete and comprehensive meaning/definition of PSS. Subsequently, it also explores EL and synthesises the different variants of EL that can be used to develop PSS. Finally, the study builds a theoretical framework that proposes integration and interplay between PSS and EL.
Findings
Problem-solving operates at three levels: problem concept (nature and context), process (stages with strategies) and solution (open-ended). EL can be used as a tool to develop PSS in an integrated manner. It is found that EL and problem-solving interplay with each other as both are cyclic in nature and have commonalities strengthening each other.
Practical implications
The proposed framework can be adopted in engineering education for making the engineering graduates job ready.
Originality/value
The study proposes a framework based on integration of EL and problem-solving focusing on specific aims and goals of the course, learning approaches, learning strategies and authentic learning (learning environment). This integration would bridge the gap between engineering education and industry requirements. EL integrated problem-solving focus on pedagogical knowledge (knowing how to facilitate discussion among learners and curricular knowledge) and instructional knowledge (knowing how to introduce, organise different methods and assess).
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research is sponsored by the Indiana Council of Social Science Research, Ministry of Education, India, New Delhi through the grant No. 3-29/2019-20/PDF/GEN entitled “Assessment of problem solving and social skills in engineering education: bridging the gap between academia and industry”.
Citation
Sangwan, K.S. and Singh, R. (2022), "An experiential learning-integrated framework to improve problem-solving skills of engineering graduates", Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, Vol. 12 No. 2, pp. 241-255. https://doi.org/10.1108/HESWBL-02-2021-0033
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited