Blended Design-based Learning (bDBL), An Innovative Approach to Cornerstone Engineering Design

• Published in: Proceedings of IEEE International Conference on Teaching, Assessment, and Learning for Engineering (Online) pp. 1 - 7
• Main Authors: Leung, Jac K. L., Lavigne, Paul D.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 01.12.2019
• Subjects: blended learning; Buildings; design education; design-based learning; Discussion forums; Engineering education; first year engineering; Technological innovation
• ISSN: 2470-6698
• DOI: 10.1109/TALE48000.2019.9225925

This paper outlines the design, formulation, implementation and review of an approach to a first year cornerstone engineering design course named 'blended design-based learning'. First year engineering education emphasizes the importance of exploration of engineering disciplines, adaptation of learning styles for higher education and gaining cognition between their subject matter and real-world applications. Blended design-based learning is the integration of design-based learning and blended learning which facilitates student-centered, hands-on, multi-disciplinary and self-regulated learning experiences. Theorized by constructionism, this pedagogy aims to develop students' design competencies and increase their motivations towards engineering. As a preliminary phase of this study, a rudimentary framework is proposed to illustrate the elements of this pedagogy and their relationship between. This paper focuses on sharing the experience gained from two previous offerings and discusses the recommended practices for this approach after consolidating feedback from students and members from the instructing team.