Large scale vertically integrated PBL

Problem based learning is a prevalent and increasingly preferred pedagogy in the field of engineering education. It is a highly effective teaching approach for this field as it contextualises learning, facilitates application and integration of domain specific knowledge as well as developing a range of transferable skills such as communication and critical thinking. An effective problem-based learning activity is contingent on a problem that students can relate to and have agency behind solution choices. In this paper we present a case study of a mixed year cohort problem-based learning activity that was aimed to emulate the reality of a contemporary, real-world engineering problem. The student cohort consist of 2nd and 3rd year engineering students from a mixture of engineering disciplines that include mechanical, mechatronics, electronic, electrical and software. The resulting impact of the teaching activity was an innovative, highly relevant and realistic experience that had a profound effect on transformable skills development.