Two facets of Innovation in Engineering Education The interplay of Student Learning and Curricula Design

Abstract: This thesis covers two main perspectives ofinnovation; first, innovation is regarded as an outcome-related mechanism wherelearning is expressed through artefact presentations at the end of adevelopment process; second, innovation comprises a change mechanism in theprocess of student learning, influencing educators to reconsider new methods andpractices. Building on qualitative data from engineering design courses, theaim has been to explore how learning elements in engineering educationinfluence students during early-phase innovation. By implementing andpracticing learning elements, early-phase innovation could strengthen both currentand future engineering curricula, courses, and programmes.This thesis put attention to authentic experiences in which learning elementsis acted upon by students and targeted, defined, and refined by educators.Introducing learning elements need educators to manifest learning efforts moreexplicitly to match students’ capability to interpret new knowledge. Adoptinglearning elements that challenge existing paths of action are characterized by diversity, proactivity, opennessand motivation. For students to excel in the exploration of early-phaseinnovation, it is important to identify when, how and to what extent leaningelements can be reinforced. Thestrengthened understanding by students is mirrored in improved ability to takeaction and apply relevant knowledge in distinct learning situations. Theopportunity to influence student learning provides the design and redesign of curricula,courses and programmes as a prime feature to leaning elements relevant to early-phaseinnovation. To successfully pursue innovation in engineering education abalance is necessary between responsible actors integrating learning elementsand by those determined to learn.