Dealing with complex and ill-structured problems: results of a Plan-Do-Check-Act experiment in a business engineering semester |
| |
| Authors: | Jens Ove Riis Poul Israelsen Poul Kyvsgaard Hansen John Johansen Jochen Deuse |
| |
| Institution: | 1. Center for Industrial Production, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark;2. Institute of Production Systems, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany |
| |
| Abstract: | Challenged by increased globalisation and fast technological development, we carried out an experiment in the third semester of a global business engineering programme aimed at identifying conditions for training student in dealing with complex and ill-structured problems of forming a new business. As this includes a fuzzy front end, learning cannot be measured in traditional, quantitative terms; therefore, we have explored the use of reflection to convert tacit knowledge to explicit knowledge. The experiment adopted a Plan-Do-Check-Act approach and concluded with developing a plan for new learning initiatives in the subsequent year’s semester. The findings conclude that (1) problem-based learning develops more competencies than ordinarily measured at the examination, especially, the social/communication and personal competencies are developed; (2) students are capable of dealing with a complex and ambiguous problem, if properly guided. Four conditions were identified; (3) most students are not conscious of their learning, but are able to reflect if properly encouraged; and (4) improving engineering education should be considered as an organisational learning process. |
| |
| Keywords: | Problem-based learning experiential learning business engineering competencies complex and ill-structured problems |
|
|
