ENHANCING ENGINEERING EDUCATION THROUGH INTEGRATED PROJECTS AND PROJECT FAIR: A CDIO FRAMEWORK PERSPECTIVE

Engineering education is evolving to meet the demands of a dynamic professional landscape. At ESPRIT School of Engineering, we have embraced active learning methodologies, specifically problem-based learning, to cultivate a dynamic educational environment that effectively fosters the acquisition of practical skills among our engineering students. Our commitment to providing authentic learning experiences is exemplified through the integration of Integrated Projects into our curriculum. Aligned with the CDIO framework—Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate—these projects immerse students in real-life problem-solving scenarios. A unique facet of our curriculum is the introduction of the "Project Fair" experience, an event that combines project-based learning with sustainability inclusion and collaboration with industry partners. In essence, Project Fair is an extension of our commitment to the CDIO framework, providing students with a platform to showcase the results of their projects in a professional context. This event not only highlights the "Operate" phase but also actively involves stakeholders such as students, faculty members, administrative staff, and representatives from the industry. In this paper, we delve into the intricacies of the 10th edition of Project Fair, offering a detailed examination of how it aligns with CDIO standards. Our focus extends to the steps taken to involve businesses in the evaluation process, our emphasis on the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the active participation of alumni in enlivening the event. We outline meticulously planned steps crucial for the success of this event, involving the coaching process, a sophisticated evaluation method, and the efficiency of the organizing committee.