Designing an Interdisciplinary Engineering Education for Complex Real-World Challenges

This edited volume presents conceptual and empirical research on the design and implementation of an interdisciplinary engineering education programme grounded in a liberal arts philosophy. Authored by researchers from diverse disciplines, the chapters explore and reflect on the elements that characterise this educational programme. The first two chapters examine the societal value of inter- and transdisciplinary education within a liberal arts framework. Subsequent chapters discuss the features and components of interdisciplinary engineering education, while also addressing the challenges associated with implementing such an approach. Particular attention is given to the role and impact of self-directed learning, a key feature of this educational model. The volume further describes the various paradigms and approaches the programme employs to realise its vision. What distinguishes this edited volume from other works on interdisciplinary engineering education is its strong integration of insights and experiences from students, alumni, and teachers who have participated in the programme’s learning and teaching activities.