Abstract
The need for a reliable supply of engineering talent is accepted globally, but in many parts of the world the many challenges mean that this is not easily achieved. Even if the graduate supply is a reality, often there are concerns about the quality of the engineers entering the workforce. This chapter will explore this landscape, and after identifying the many challenges, explore solutions and potential ideas for the future of engineering education and the university/industry collaboration.
TopStem (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) Graduates
So, in thinking about STEM graduates, exactly what does industry want?
In one word – everything!
They want a sound technical background but also a wide range of interpersonal, personal and business skills to supplement that STEM understanding. Also, they are not always consistent. Sometimes one area is valued more than another and this will vary from company to company.
Despite the ‘demands’ industry often places on universities and the criticism that is sometimes levelled at them concerning the quality of the graduates being produced, industry engagement in the educational process can be very variable. It is almost as though there is a reluctance to get too involved, as in it not being their responsibility.
The UK Institution of Mechanical Engineers produced a report in 2011 (IMechE, 2011), of which the key messages are still as relevant today as when the report was written, in particular the recommendations.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Employability: The employability of engineering graduates once they complete their course of study is a key consideration across the globe and one that needs to be explored within the engineering education process.
Engineering Education Research: Increasingly there is an awareness that, in order to promote greater understanding of the value and impact of innovation in engineering education, a more scholarly / research-based approach is needed. To that end, institutional. national and international groups have formed to promote and conduct engineering education research (EER).
Industry Collaboration: The collaboration between industry and universities is essential if we are to ensure that graduating students can contribute fully when they start their careers. Unfortunately, the collaboration not occurring as widely as it should and, when it does occur, the effort needed for success is considerable. The university / industry toolkit explores the features of strong engagement with respect to the learning and teaching space and identifies actions that each can consider in order to foster even stronger relationships.
SEFI (European Engineering Education Society): The European Engineering Education Society offers a community of practitioners and scholars who have a mutual interest in the development and greater understanding of engineering education.
STEM: The term used to describe the combined subjects of science, technology, engineering, maths. This term is used most often in schools but increasingly in the tertiary education space.
Innovative Engineering Education: The generic used term for new approaches to engaging students in the study of engineering subjects. It covers all aspects of the education process from design and implementation to assessment and reflection.