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Engineering education is critical for inspiring future generations, providing them with the skills to solve complex problems, design innovative solutions, and drive technological advancements. If you’re interested in making a difference in the education system in your country or considering a mid-career move to engineering education, look no further than Purdue University’s School of Engineering Education (ENE).
Purdue’s engineering legacy is undeniable. As a powerhouse for 150 years in education of engineers, the university recognised the need to delve deeper into how engineers are best prepared. This vision led to the establishment of the ENE in 2004, marking a significant milestone. The doctoral programme offered by the school has been instrumental in elevating the quality of engineering education, shaping future generations of engineers with the necessary skills to tackle 21st-century challenges.
In fact, the school has a long and distinguished history. Of the 25 inductees into the American Society of Engineering Education (ASEE) Hall of Fame in the organisation’s 130th year, seven were affiliated with Purdue.
ENE today envisions a future where engineering education is inclusive, fosters social connections, and is deeply rooted in scholarly pursuits. This vision translates into a three-pronged mission: reimagining engineering and its education, generating groundbreaking knowledge in the field, and empowering those who will lead the charge in transforming the discipline.
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These three missions guide a team of over 25 faculty members as they experiment with innovative teaching methods, develop curricula, and meticulously evaluate student learning. Their findings are then translated into practical applications, shaping the classrooms of tomorrow’s engineers.
One distinct ENE graduate programme is the online Teaching and Learning in Engineering graduate certificate. This unique programme, offered by the first institution to award a PhD in Engineering Education, caters to a diverse audience. It is designed for current or aspiring STEM educators from academia, industry, and the military who seek to refine their teaching practices and gain a deeper understanding of how students learn best.
Through this programme, you’ll gain the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in your roles. In other words, you’ll learn to streamline course design, align outcomes, assessment and instruction, and apply state-of-the-art teaching methods to improve student learning.
The certificate programme covers the core principles of effective engineering instruction. “Content, Assessment and Pedagogy” provides a framework for course development, guiding you through the entire process of curriculum design. You will learn instructional design principles with a focus on alignment of content, assessment, and instruction, ensuring learning objectives are met.
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Moving beyond theory, “Educational Methods in Engineering” equips participants with practical teaching techniques suited to the unique demands of engineering education. Through case studies and hands-on activities, you’ll explore classroom and laboratory management strategies while mastering various methods like lectures, group work, and technology-based learning. You’ll also cover essential considerations such as study motivation, learning theories, and classroom assessment strategies.
To solidify your teaching skills, “Mentored Teaching in Engineering” provides real-world experience. Under the guidance of a faculty member, you’ll apply all you’ve learned in your teaching assignments, receiving ongoing feedback for continuous improvement. The programme extends beyond the classroom, preparing you for the broader responsibilities of an engineering professor.
Meanwhile, “Succeeding as an Engineering Professor” covers essential skills like proposal writing, project and people management, and effective professional networking. You’ll learn how to craft compelling research and teaching statements, giving you an edge in the job market.
Recognising the diverse career aspirations of engineering educators, the programme offers “Exploring Alternative Career Paths as an Engineering Educator.” This course exposes you to the various roles available in STEM education, including positions in pre-college institutions, non-profit organisations, and industry. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in these educational settings.
Source: Purdue University
All these courses are taught by the same faculty who teach on campus, ensuring a consistent, high-quality learning experience. Although the graduate certificate courses are virtual, Purdue ENE faculty prioritise maximising student interaction and fostering a collaborative learning environment through personalised feedback. This means you’ll benefit from the expertise of professors, engage in discussions with your classmates, and receive feedback tailored to your individual needs.
The best part? The programme has an asynchronous format that allows working professionals and those with busy schedules to complete it without disrupting their professional or personal commitments. This way, you can complete this 10-credit hour programme in three to four semesters.
Upon completion of this programme, you will have the ability to think critically about teaching, design streamlined courses with aligned learning outcomes, and confidently apply cutting-edge teaching methods to enhance student learning. Plus, you will be able to identify mentors who can provide valuable feedback and guidance, ultimately propelling you towards success as an engineering or STEM educator.
Interested? Learn more about the Teaching and Learning in Engineering graduate certificate.
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