21st century complexity in engineering work demands the ability

to navigate between significantly different

theoretical concepts and practical contexts

Research title:

Conceptual and contextual work in engineering technician industrial practice: improving approaches to 21^st century technician training

Nature of research:

Case studies focusing on the analysis of technician problem-solving practices across engineering sectors in the Western Cape region. Given the high dropout and poor throughput rates, as well as unemployment statistics, it is essential that we gain an improved understanding of effective problem-solving in 21^st century engineering fields, if we are to more adequately prepare our graduates for industry.

How this research worked:

The focus of the research is technician and technologist problem-solving in the following industries/sectors:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronics Engineering

The focus of 'problem-solving' in these sectors is NOT design orientated; rather on the fault-finding or troubleshooting processes in any technical aspect of the practitioner's work.

Participants were asked to be involved in three stages:

1. Complete an online questionnaire about any technical problem recently encountered at work.

2. Select participants, with the permission of their companies, were interviewed at the place of work and in relation to the problem that was solved.

All the research is confidential. The aim is to identify different patterns of problem-solving processes in the different contexts. The focus is not on specific individuals or their companies.