Paul Hermon

AN EVALUATION OF ACTIVE LEARNING STRATEGIES APPLIED TO ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

An engineering mathematics module has been developed and implemented to promote deeper learning using the CDIO methodology. It conforms to several CDIO Standards and also seeks to develop personal, interpersonal and professional skills through an active and interactive learning paradigm. This paper discusses the content, pedagogy and efficacy of the module in relation to student motivation, engagement and attainment over a three year period. It is shown that such an approach is successful in this regard.

The Power of Self-evaluation Based Cross-Sparring in Developing the Quality of Engineering Programmes

This paper discusses how the quality of engineering education can be improved in practice by using a process of sharing and critique. Starting with a self-evaluation followed by a cross-sparring with critical friends, this new approach has proven successful in initiating change. With a focus on quality enhancement as much as quality assurance, the engagement in and attractiveness of the engineering education are key considerations of the development activities that are inspired by the process. In the process programmes are paired with appropriate partners and, using the self-evaluation as a foundation, the cross-sparring enables each partner the best opportunities to learn from each other. The approach has been developed in an ERASMUS + project involving eight European universities and has been called QAEMP (Quality Assurance and Enhancement Market Place).