School-to-Work Transfer of Learning Model with Authentic Modelling and Simulation Applications in Undergraduate Engineering Education
Grant Name
Ministry of Education Tertiary Education Research Fund (MOE-TRF)Abstract
Transfer of Learning is defined as the learning degree to which learners successfully and continuously apply knowledge, and skills acquired in learning and training actions. However, transfer of skills and knowledge is a complex area of learning theory which is often assumed and lacks empirical analysis. Facilitating transfer is essential for preparing students for effective transition to the workplace.
The aim of this proposed project is to develop a School-to-Work Transfer of Learning (SWTL) Model for undergraduate engineering education that facilitates problem- and project-based authentic modelling and simulation (M&S) practices that uses computers and computational tools to model physical phenomena integrated within the learning modules. The authentic M&S practice aims to mirror expert practitioners to prepare the students for the workplace, while enhancing the students’ higher-order skills, such as, problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking, and digital skills.
The questions that we will study in this proposed research are:
What are elements of the SWTL model that can enhance transfer of learning?
How can the SWTL model support students in applying M&S in ill-structured problems and subsequently at the workplace?
The objectives of the proposed research then are to:
Development of and effective SWTL model for the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) – University of Glasgow (UofG) undergraduate mechanical engineering programme, with a hypothesized SWTL model.
Development of teaching and learning approaches and resources, including development of ill-structured problems in collaboration with our industry partners to support the SWTL model.
Evaluation of the SWTL model when applied to developing M&S knowledge and skills in students using the Kirkpatrick's four-level of evaluation model.
Through the SWTL, we aim to develop and enhance the following skills of the students (learning outcomes):
Digital/Computational Skills - to employ digital and computational tools commonly used in the industry to solve problems beyond hand calculations.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills – to develop solutions to real-life ill-structured engineering problems using M&S.
Decision-Making Skills – to evaluate results based on M&S results and make engineering decisions using model-based reasoning.
The problem-solving, critical thinking and decision-making skills will be evaluated in higher-level modules, such as design-related modules, overseas immersion programme (OIP), Integrated Word-Study Programme (IWSP), and Capstone Project.