Assessment of a Novel Learning Block Model for Engineering Design Skill Development: A Case Example for Engineering Design Interviewing

摘要

Human-, user-, and context-centered design processes require in-depth knowledge of stakeholders, end users, and broader contextual constraints, respectively[l]-[3]. Non-traditional engineering methods, including qualitative research methods such as interviewing and observing, are important methods frequently used by design practitioners to generate data throughout the design process; this is particularly true during the front-end phases of design, and former studies have shown that the success of new products depends upon how well the front-end design phases are executed. These non-traditional engineering skills cannot typically be mastered through standard undergraduate engineering curricula. Although recognized as core to human-, user-, and context-centered design processes, engineering students often gain surface-level theoretical exposure to these topics and don't have access to educational resources that provide detailed information about best practices or faculty mentors with in-depth expertise on these topics [4]. Further, because students frequently engage in design activities outside of the classroom and at different points in their academic careers, novice design practitioners would benefit from on-demand access to training materials and hands-on learning opportunities coupled with real-time feedback regarding performance to practice these challenging skills.