Active Learning and Action Research Outside Classroom: Engineering with Social Impact

Abstract

The bridge between theory and practice is one of the toughest barriers that engineering students should face while working for the first time. In addition, Colombia has many prevailing needs that could be surpassed through engineering sustainable solutions. Seeking to reduce this bridge, a methodology was proposed to connect engineering students with rural communities with social, economic and/or environmental needs using Participatory Action Research and CDIO. This methodology involves a previous observation phase and evaluation criteria that enhance a participative development of proposals of engineering with social impact. This methodology was implemented in a middle-career course of Industrial Engineering during 2014, where the results show that it allows students to develop (1) professional skills related with communication and problem-solving, and (2) feasible engineering proposals that go beyond traditional approaches.