Llew Mann

Llew Mann

Visiting Professor at the Lassonde School of Engineering at York University, Canada

Practice-Based Education as a Transformational Engineering Education Framework

Thrusday, February 13
10:00AM – 11:00AM
Peralta, Room 313

Abstract

Transformational approaches to engineering education are required to better prepare graduates for the complexities of current and future practice. Practice-based education offers a new approach and paradigm for engineering education, one that can both ensure graduates are competent to practice now, but also be prepared for an uncertain future. This talk will present a Practice-based education framework with three elements: (1) the context of an authentic engineering practice, (2) supporting learners’ agency in the process of becoming professionals, and (3) opportunities to work and learn simultaneously. It will make the case for innovative engineering education through the implementation of PBE using the case of the Engineering Practice Academy at Swinburne University of Technology. It will detail innovations in student experience as a process of becoming, curriculum and assessment, and provide advice on the application of PBE elsewhere.

Bio

Llew Mann is an engineering education innovator, researcher and teacher. He is currently a visiting professor at the Lassonde School of Engineering at York University, Canada, where he is supporting efforts to transform engineering education to create renaissance engineers. Before this, he was the Managing Partner of the Engineering Practice Academy at Swinburne University of Technology. Operating as an engineering consulting practice, the Academy educated undergraduate students within a practice-based consulting environment for their entire degree, undertaking projects for real clients from their fi rst day, and learning to be an engineer through a curriculum of online micro-credentials. As Managing Partner, he developed and lead a team of sixteen academics (faculty), engineers and professional staff to deliver these new forms of engineering education, build a purpose-driven organisation and culture, and engage with industry and community partners in the co-design of transformative new curricula and student experiences.