The Value of Introduction to Engineering Design as a General Education Course

Imagine a college student stepping into their introductory engineering design class for the first time. Could this course be a game-changer for their academic and career paths?

There are countless stories of students who have shifted their majors based on their experience in a single general education course. One such scenario exits at my university, which, alas, did not offer such a course. However, the benefits of integrating an introduction to engineering design into the general education curriculum are profound, benefiting not only engineering students but potentially all students seeking direction or interest in the field.

Facilitating Career Exploration

Engineering design is much more than just a requirement for engineering degree programs. It has the potential to serve as a transformative experience for any student, regardless of their prospective field. By offering this course as a general education credit, institutions can expose students to a broad spectrum of topics and experiential learning that could help them make informed decisions about their future academic and career paths.

Students who are introduced to engineering design through a general education course might have the opportunity to:

Gain a foundational understanding of the engineering design process. Experience real-world problem-solving and innovation. Understand the impact of engineering solutions on society. Explore interdisciplinary connections with other fields like technology, business, and the arts.

Exposure vs. Conversion

The goal of integrating such a course into a general education curriculum is not to convert non-major students into engineering majors. Instead, it is to provide a platform for exposure and exploration. By offering this course as a general interest credit, educators can foster curiosity, broaden students' horizons, and encourage them to pursue further studies in engineering or related fields if they find a passion in it.

The change from a required engineering degree course to a general education course should not detract from the importance of this content. It should be recognized as a valuable tool for career exploration and development, much like other general education courses designed to broaden students' knowledge base.

Case Studies from My University

While my university and nearby institutions have chosen to integrate introduction to engineering design as a requirement, it is heartening to see that other institutions have taken a more progressive approach. By offering such a course as a general education credit, these universities are acknowledging the potential impact of this course on students from all disciplines.

For example, one such institution might have:

Offered the course to non-engineering students who were interested in learning about the engineering design process. Encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration through joint projects and presentations. Provided opportunities for students to use design thinking to solve real-world problems. Created a curriculum that aligns with industry standards and best practices.

These initiatives not only enrich the academic experience of the students but also contribute to a more informed and innovative marketplace of ideas.

Conclusion

The importance of introduction to engineering design as a general education course cannot be overstated. It provides a unique opportunity for students to explore a potential interest or career path in engineering without the pressure of a formal major requirement. This course should be seen as a valuable resource for all students, not just engineering majors.

By converting this course into a general interest credit, institutions can help students make informed decisions about their futures, fostering a more diverse and well-rounded educational experience. As we continue to see the evolving landscape of higher education, it is crucial to explore new ways to integrate such courses that benefit all students and challenge traditional disciplinary boundaries.