An engineering education framework for fulfilling the outcome-based education requirements

Abstract

The recently revised Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC) Engineering Program Accreditation Manual (The Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC), 2012) requires all undergraduate engineering programs in Malaysia to demonstrate twelve new set of learning outcomes which are aligned with the Washington Accord graduate attributes. The attributes emphasized not only on the mastery of technical disciplines but also on the acquirement of soft skills such as communication, leadership and a range of creative and critical thinking skills. CDIO is an international initiative of engineering education framework which provides an integrated curriculum model with an aim to produce global engineers who are workplace ready. This paper highlights the significance of using CDIO engineering education framework in reviewing Malaysian engineering programs in order to fulfil the requirements of EAC and Outcome-Based Education (OBE) approach. Mapping of the relationships between CDIO Standards and OBE components and principles is also discussed.