DYNAMIC INTEGRATION OF SUSTAINABILITY AND CLIMATE CHANGE IN ENGINEERING CURRICULA VIA CDIO

This paper explores the transformative potential of the CDIO (Conceiving, Designing, Implementing, and Operating) approach in adapting traditional engineering programs to accommodate the needs for sustainability and climate change perspectives. Integrating those aspects is imperative today since engineers play a pivotal role in addressing the industry's environmental impacts and meeting the demands of a changing energy landscape. Equipping students with these skills is essential to ensure graduates are well-prepared to balance industry needs with environmental responsibility. The CDIO approach, rooted in global collaboration and practical problem-solving, offers a flexible framework that aligns with the growing needs of the industry since it allows educators to seamlessly incorporate new concepts into the curricula while connecting the vertical and horizontal educational approaches. One innovative idea is to leverage the CDIO or Project-Based Learning (PBL) concept to create dynamic engineering curricula. Our experience from the Australian University in Kuwait includes case studies of PBL courses from the Petroleum Engineering Program that incorporate various sustainability aspects. In these case studies, students ventured beyond their usual curriculum, acquiring knowledge that extended to novel and essential elements. Empirical evidence from pre- and post-surveys showcases PBL's significant impact on enhancing students' understanding of sustainability concepts within engineering curricula. The study underscores the value of hands-on, project-driven learning in fostering a holistic and environmentally conscious approach among engineering students. In conclusion, this paper discusses how CDIO, emphasizing real-world application and open-architecture design, can dynamically reshape engineering education. The case studies demonstrate a successful and applicable approach, offering students a promising opportunity for skill development and acquiring new learning outcomes beyond the traditional curriculum. This dynamic adaptation promises to produce a new generation of engineers better prepared to navigate the ever-growing industry while practicing environmental stewardship and sustainability.