University of Petroleum & Energy Studies helps the students to learn skills in theory as well as in practice. This is also the best way to learn a new skill set, first students thoroughly study the theory and then they perform it in practical settings. With the ever-growing demand for engineers who can combine innovation with technical and practical aspects of theory, the need for engineering education to reinvent itself thus becomes inevitable.
Here are six changes that can bring an overhaul in the way engineering is taught:
#1. Introducing Students to Industrial Technicalities
Engineers are the creators of everything. To fulfill specific industrial demands for operating in a variety of sectors, substantial technical knowledge is needed. Thus, industry-specific curriculum, which includes programming language learning, system design and analysis, logical, conceptual, and physical data modelling and structural analysis must be introduced for facilitating the transition from students to thorough professionals.
#2. Project Management Skills
From the drawing board to the final light switch, engineers are involved with different teams to complete projects on time. Therefore, their education must inculcate in them skills such as analytical thinking, effective communication and smart delegation, which are the vital requirements for managing any project.
#3. Creativity and teamwork
The fundamentals of engineering revolve around the principles of problem-solving, multi-tasking, and finding new ways to apply existing knowledge, and doing all of this together with the team. Engineering institutions must conduct brainstorming sessions, workshops, and seminars chaired by industry leaders and mentors to inspire students to think creatively. And in the process, teach them the power of teamwork by applying various skills such as verbal communication, prioritizing and problem-solving. Because every engineer works with a team from initial design to completion of the project; it is the essence of department collaboration and integration.
#4. Mathematics and Digital Skills
From a simple calculation to complex number crushing, including the data analysis, everything requires strong mathematical skills and computer knowledge. In every field of engineering, number crunching is necessary to analyse the problem and design its solution. Engineering education must, therefore, include necessary skills such as AutoCAD, Automated Model Programming, Microsoft Suite Experience and the knowledge of diagrams, flow-chart, the reading blueprint of the design.
#5. Problem-solving
A significant part of an engineer’s job requires problem-solving, whether relating to design or its construction. Engineering institutions must teach students to become influential analytical thinkers with the capability of providing quick solutions to existing problems. It requires the curriculum to teach students how to do analytical thinking, develop and test the prototype to analyse the work process and its applications, develop design calculations, provide cost estimation and the knowledge of other such engineering fundamentals.
#6. Interpersonal Skills
Apart from completing B. Tech. course and acquiring technical knowledge, it is also essential to inculcate interpersonal skills in students, which can help in the growth of their career. Such skills boost their professional knowledge base and help in its application in actual industrial projects.
In India, there are universities such as UPES that offer exemplary B. Tech. courses in specialised fields. Students can grab the opportunity to learn the latest technical skills and hands-on industrial experience from the experts.
In this complex, competitive world, merely getting a primary education does not guarantee jobs; it is specialisation that can secure the future. The UPES curricula include various specialisations of engineering and technology that are reshaping the world around us. The dedicated courses help gain specific technical skills. Apart from practical and theoretical knowledge of industry-ready skills, engineering education at UPES equips the students with various interpersonal skills such as analytical thinking.
In the future, the scope of engineering seems to grow wide. The possibilities are open to all the skill holders of the field. Students can start their career with an undergrad course at UPES, where they can learn such skills – both practical and theoretical and prepare themselves with education for the future.