Electrical engineering education for a sustainable world: Adjustment of academic programs in Ecuador

Abstract

Electrical engineering has been one of the most evolving fields of the engineering since its origin as a profession in the late nineteenth century. As a result, the program offered by universities has had to face challenges to adapt to an ever-changing environment. This article assesses the impact of the modifications performed in electrical engineering programs of Ecuador to fit in a world that currently focuses on renewable energy and sustainable development while educating future professionals possessing the competences required by the national energy sector. To achieve this goal, the project proposes different evaluation criteria that respond to the three elements of study: educational objectives, curriculum content and learning components. Such criteria include content analysis, online survey and interviews with specialists. The outcomes indicate most universities have updated their curriculum into the current national energy exploitation scene; however, they do not count with the necessary resources to teach specialized courses on energy sustainability.