A case study on the revitalisation of a 2nd level engineering and spatial science PBL course

Abstract

This paper provides an interim report on a 4 year study of the effects of curriculum reform on student learning outcome and experience in a 2nd level engineering PBL course which offers on-campus and off-campus modes of study. The initial investigation of the student feedback from 2007 provided a list of recommendations and lead to structural changes in the course in 2008. A new curriculum model resulted in changes in course design and delivery strategies; these were implemented in 2008. Additional student feedback was collected in 2008 to further refine the model, and a list of recommendations resulted in modifications in the course model to be implemented in 2009. The progressive findings noted that even though curriculum reform has resulted in enhanced student learning, it gave rise to a more negative student experience in general. Though the implementation process was regarded as successful, lack of staff training and familiarity with the new model was a weakness in the delivery of the course.