Fit for purpose? Engineering educators', teacher training & engineering scholarship

Drawing upon a small part of the findings of a large mixed-methodological research study, this paper starts by asking the controversial research question “Are Engineering Educators fit for Purpose?” In answering this question the study itself began with a critical analysis of the literature, something that is reflected in this paper. The articulation and definition of 12 key Engineering Skills, Competencies and Knowledge was undertaken at the beginning of the project based upon the undergraduate engineering curriculum taught at the 10 partner institutions. Starting with the somewhat controversial research question “Are Engineering Educators' fit for Purpose?” this paper has some important implications for how Engineering academics are supported and trained to teach. It critically discusses the study findings and concludes by suggesting that it is high time that the Postgraduate Certificate in Education and HEA Fellowship Programme were both adapted so as to account for the distinctive issues associated with teaching Engineering & Applied Science.