Basically, how an engineer is able to “systematically analyze complex information and apply a holistic (systematic) approach in designing solutions" goes down to the education that he have undergone.
Education plays an important part in shaping an undergraduate’s path in becoming an engineer during its course of study. An engineering course would usually encompass modules that expose engineers to many different problems and scenarios and drill them in problem-solving techniques. Furthermore, engineers are allowed to take up modules from different faculties, enriching their education. Taking NUS as an example, graduating with an engineering degree requires one to complete cross-faculty modules, apart from the core modules. In doing so, engineers are exposed to different fields and this would certainly enhance their working capabilities in a wider scope of occupation.
Besides nurturing them in classroom-based education, it is usually mandatory for engineers to participate in laboratory experiments, research and even Industrial-Attachment. These essentially allow engineers to verify what they have learnt and to apply them. Experience gained from these activities would certainly prepare the engineers with the challenges ahead after they enter the workforce. I believe with such a pedagogical approach in its education coupled with the hands-on experience they gained, engineers would naturally have a cut above the rest in terms of analyzing information and holistically designing solutions.
One should also note that advancement in technology has also contributed greatly in aiding engineers to accomplish these tasks. Engineers made use of the power of the internet to facilitate them in gathering and organising information efficiently. Computers also served as great tools in assisting engineers to systematically design solutions.
To sum up, an engineering education weighs significant importance in preparing engineers with its desired skill in “systematically analyzing complex information and applying a holistic (systematic) approach in designing solutions" and technological advancement would definitely improve its efficiency.
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ReplyDeleteThe points are clear and concise.As we go further, the essay becomes more and more interesting and thoughtful.I totally agree with your analysis on an engineer's education.
ReplyDeleteI would like to point out that the only cause discussed in the essay is education, it might have been better if a few more causes were mentioned.
I agree! A pedagogical approach in its education coupled with the hands-on experience engineers gain lifts them up one notch higher. Technology improves it all too!
ReplyDeleteGenerally, Royden, you write quite well, but there are errors and odd expressions that pull down the standard overall. Let us look at this example from paragraph 1, for instance: Basically, how an engineer is able to “systematically analyze complex information and apply a holistic (systematic) approach in designing solutions" *goes down* to the education that he *have* undergone.
ReplyDelete1) The correct expression is "boils down", not "goes down"
2) "he " is singular, so you should use a singular verb--"has undergone"
Little slips like the ones above are easily eliminated, so try to avoid them, Royden.