Engineers have a set of powerful tools at their disposal for designing robust and reliable technical systems. In educational design these tools are seldom applied. This paper explores the application of concepts from the systems approach in an educational context. The paradigms of design methodology and systems engineering appear to be suitable…

Discusses how the definition of educational objectives led to the introduction of practical training that is compulsory or advised in many engineering curricula and defined as "learning to put knowledge and skills into practice". Introduces an assessment procedure that allows for testing whether students have met the objectives. (Author/YDS)

Explains the evolution of the objectives of engineering education from knowledge to skills which is referred to as a 'paradigm shift'. Reviews the relationship between the demands and the educational objectives, and discusses the implications for assessment and the relationship between educational methods and assessment. (Author/YDS)