Abstract:

The availability of IT labs is vital for successful teaching and learning in engineering programs. The Department of Electrical Engineering which is the setting of this action research project has experienced shortage of IT lab facilities over a period of time. This problem has affected the department in 2 ways: (a) the students’ ability to complete final year projects using specific high efficiency engineering computer programs, and (b) the faculty’s ability to conduct research and teach courses that require IT lab facilities. The researchers interviewed students, faculty and administrators to investigate the effects of the problem and to develop an action plan as a solution. The researchers subsequently discussed the solutions using a collaborative approach. The best cost-effective solution is to use a staggered work schedule for technical staff and assisted by student volunteers. A future solution of faculty obtaining research grants for work stations from industries is currently underway.

Keywords:

Engineering education, teaching and learning, action research