Abstract:

Engineering education is facing an ongoing disconnect between innovation and socio-economic impact competencies versus the training that graduate students receive from researchers. Educational research indicates that there is a need for a robust pedagogical framework designed specifically to address the gap created by this disconnect. This paper presents research that highlights the significant opportunity available to create a comprehensive conceptual framework to guide the development of classic research courses into capabilities building.

The RDI Competency Development Engine was created through a systematic multi-staging model that included the following components:
(i) A systematic review of the influenced pedagogical theory;
(ii) The integration of best practices from innovation ecosystems; and
(iii) An iterative development approach where input from industry and educational professionals was obtained.

This Framework will serve as both an empirical and theoretical guide for future research and empirical evaluation of competency development engines. Additionally, it provides a strategic framework for educators to use in developing courses that prepare their students with the competencies needed for success in an AI-driven global economy.

The Framework incorporates five interrelated principles:
(i) The foundational shift to an integrated RDI Pedagogy;
(ii) The enabling drivers of AI-Augmented/Challenge-Based Learning;
(iii) Core engine components of knowledge integration, application of skills, and identity shift;
(iv) Outputs of enhanced graduate competencies; and
(v) The ultimate outputs are impact-ready graduates.

Overall, the RDI Competency Development Engine provides a theoretically-driven structure for rethinking graduate level engineering education and offers a practical blueprint for educational practitioners who wish to develop and implement teaching methodologies that will systematically build the innovator competencies required to enter the emerging fields of AI and other disruptive technologies.

Keywords:

Engineering Education, Innovation, Entrepreneurship Education, RDI Pedagogy, AI-Augmented Learning, Competency Curriculum Development and Design.