Implementing Project-Based Learning Using CDIO Concepts

To prepare our students for the knowledge economy, a new education model which aims to provide our students with a more balanced and holistic education integrating the teaching of (i) domain knowledge with (ii) people and process skills and (iii) values & ethics is being developed in Singapore Polytechnic. New innovative approaches to teaching, learning and assessment that promote creativity and authentic learning are being explored. After learning about the CDIO concepts and realizing the potential of cultivating students with the desired skills, a pilot programme incorporating CDIO concepts into project-based learning was implemented in the Singapore Polytechnic in 2003.

The projects were developed using CDIO theories where students worked through conceive, design, implement and operate stages. In these projects, students in a class of 20 are required to build an artifact that comprises sensors and control algorithms. So far, three cohorts of students have completed their projects. As the projects developed were highly innovative and creative, the local news program had featured some of the students’ innovations. Besides completing the projects, students also developed other attributes such as creative and critical thinking, resourcefulness and learning to learn traits.