COMPLEX APPROACH TO TECHNICAL TEACHER EDUCATION IN ENGINEERING PEDAGOGY

Abstract

At Estonian Centre for Engineering Pedagogy acomplex, multi-layered approach has been designed and isbeing implemented for technical teacher education. Thedesigned complex approach consists of three consecutivelevels: bachelor, master and doctoral level. On bachelorlevel basic engineering competences are acquired. Onmaster level engineering specialty competences areexpanded, additionally knowledge in engineering pedagogyis acquired. On doctoral level implicit competences of anengineering educator are provided. Entrance qualificationsfor all levels have been clearly defined. The result of theprocess is to graduate educators with certified degrees andspecific competencies which certify them as qualifiedteachers in technical subjects. The heart of the approach iscomplex of curricula designed to overcome the differencebetween entrance level and graduation qualification, beingoriented on learning outcomes. Process of quality controlshould be initiated to improve the approach continuously.Detailed description of the complex approach is presented inthe article.Index Terms ⎯ Engineering Pedagogy, multi-layeredcurriculum design, technical teacher education.