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Engineering Curriculum for a Global Village
Final Paper 418KB |
In this paper, I will address this question and propose that the current curriculum in various engineering disciplines move beyond conventional silo-based contents to holistic programs that integrate interdisciplinary inquiry into the core courses and prepare students for global engagement through the use of overseas student exchanges, global academic partnerships, and emerging technologies. As an example, I will present a curriculum for a four-year Mechanical Engineering degree program that blends human and social sciences, applied sciences, communication and leadership with the required math and core mechanical courses. To introduce students to interdisciplinary research and outreach, the curriculum requires them to undertake a multi-year project(s) to reach out to developing communities locally or globally and assist them in self-reliance through sustainable technologies and practices. I believe that by embracing these more encompassing perspectives in learning and discovery, we will prepare our students for careers addressing global problems.
Author(s):
Roop Mahajan
Mechanical Engineering
Virginia Tech
United States