Experiential Learning Programs for the Future of Engineering Education

Abstract

The need for 21st century engineers to be educated as creative innovators is discussed. Three complementary experiential learning programs that help engineering students learn to stretch beyond their comfort zones are described: a multidisciplinary design program; an entrepreneurship program; and an international engineering program. These three interdisciplinary programs each address common educational needs: to create flexible, creative, self-actualized change agents. The approaches we are taking to implement and institutionalize these in a large, comprehensive, research oriented university are described.