Experiences of higher education development with CDIO initiative

Abstract

The strategy of Turku University of Applied Sciences defines innovation pedagogy as the base of its operations. Developed for universities of applied sciences with an emphasis on efficient learning and regional development, innovation pedagogy has five underlying elements: multi-field operation, applied research and development, flexible curricula, entrepreneurship and internationalisation. The Faculty of Telecommunication and e-Business uses the CDIO approach to put innovation pedagogy into action. The CDIO approach has been the guiding principle of education development for the faculty since 2006.

The CDIO initiative is an innovative educational framework for producing the next generation of engineers, developed with input from academics, industry, engineers and students. Stressing engineering fundamentals, the initiative provides students with an education set in the context of Conceiving – Designing – Implementing – Operating real-world systems and products.

The book at hand offers insight into how the Faculty of Telecommunication and e-Business at Turku University of Applied Sciences utilises the CDIO approach in its day-to-day activities.