Exploring Decision-Based Learning in an Engineering Context

Abstract

Transitioning engineering knowledge to practice is critical for the success of a working engineer. Decision-Based learning (DBL) provides a path for developing this capability during the educational experience rather than relying on post-educational experiences in the field. In this chapter, DBL is framed in the context of an engineering educational experience, with a discussion of how certain attributes of engineering and DBL can complement each other. An overall class structure conducive to implementing DBL instruction methods is presented. A possible process for defining an expert decision model (EDM) for engineering topics is explored. This type of decision model can help communicate and teach students the small decisions that culminate to an expert conclusion on a topic, giving the student a clear way to justify analysis and design decisions. An EDM for selecting of a static failure theory with an accompanying learning module and representative assignment problems that accompany the module are presented. The implementation of a DBL approach in an engineering classroom is discussed, and reflections are given about the experience for both the instructor and the students.

Citation

Nelson, T.G. (2021), "Exploring Decision-Based Learning in an Engineering Context", Wentworth, N., Plummer, K.J. and Swan, R.H. (Ed.) Decision-Based Learning: An Innovative Pedagogy that Unpacks Expert Knowledge for the Novice Learner, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 55-65. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80043-202-420211006