Appropriate Curricula for Engineering Management Programmes: A South African Approach

Abstract

Education in the field of engineering management is rapidly increasing worldwide, and particularly in developing countries that are industrialised. In South Africa, Stellenbosch University and the University of Pretoria respond to the need for these skills through dedicated postgraduate programmes. The programmes link the concept of adult learning with a web-based environment. Furthermore, project-based learning activities are typically used in the modules of the programmes. The research summarised in this chapter set out to determine whether the web-based platform is a constraint for project-based learning on the programmes, and to ascertain whether the learning styles on the programmes are conducive for these learning activities; to then understand better how learners develop appropriate knowledge and competencies in engineering management. An action research approach and a questionnaire research methodology were combined, focusing on a specific module that is offered on the programmes. It is concluded that the web-based platform is not a constraint to the programmes. Furthermore, the learning styles of the typical educators and learners are conducive to project-based learning, although the principles of flexible learning, through reflective practice, must be incorporated for students of different characteristics. Finally, the chapter introduces a conceptual model for curricula design to facilitate effective and flexible learning on the programmes. Further research is required to determine the practicality of the conceptual model for the postgraduate engineering management programmes.