Engineering is a profession that encompasses a wide-range of services and vocations. No matter what type of engineer someone wants to become, they need a good education in order to be successful, but this is where some schools are falling short. According to entrepreneur.com, there are several ways to bridge the gap between industry requirements and academic curriculums.
Technology
Any good infrastructure needs to start with the right tools. The proper technology will provide the methods needed to teach students at a professional level, which will lead to competent and well-educated engineers when they graduate. By having quality technology, students will be better equipped to handle engineering problems out in the real world.
Teachers
Having the right instructor is also very important in any learning process. Studies show that people respond well to teachers who care. By introducing interactive classrooms and techniques, students can learn more effectively and feel comfortable providing feedback. Engaging in discussion groups, participating in role-play and having debates are all innovative ways students can learn. By including everyone in the process, nobody feels left out and the students end up helping each other.
Collaborators
Being too insular can be a bad thing, even in the most successful groups. Students should be able to collaborate on things like research studies, creating curriculums, and getting real-world experience, even visiting and attending rival universities. By having students and faculty working together, potential gaps in education can be filled, creating more well-rounded and experienced students. Getting students into internships is also key, since the real world is vastly different than the academic point of view one gets from sitting in a classroom.
Innovation
The field of engineering is extremely data-driven, and it’s not especially entertaining or colorful, therefore it is always important to encourage innovation. Teaching students basic business skills is another great way to create well-rounded students because it helps them combine their engineering degree with the skills to handle business strategies and startups. Creating open minds is very important in the field of engineering because it helps students to think outside the box.
Finding Your Fit
Every individual has his or her own unique set of skills, and brings with them different competencies. It is important to help people find jobs that are a good fit — that focus on their strengths and career goals. Having a good understanding of the field, the companies involved in the industry and the aspirations of the individual will help provide the best outcomes for all involved. Ultimately, the goal is to have the perfect fit between the individual and the company. If schools actively expose their students’ to a variety of companies through internships and co-ops, it’s a win-win after all. Higher graduate employment rates help schools attract the best talent. Exposure to real world career experience helps the most talented students secure their ideal job after graduation.
Max Swahn studies at Pitt University. He has a passion for engineering as well as bodybuilding. In his spare time he blogs.
Published September 29, 2018 September 28, 2018
Originally published at maxswahn.wordpress.com on September 29, 2018.
