Bringing work into the classroom – ill-structured problems and transfer of learning through computer simulations

Although simulation learning is a powerful, versatile and sustainable tool in the engineering classroom, its implementation can face a tough reception. This article looks at the experiences of students from the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), who have used simulations to tackle realistic problems and transfer learning between modules. When considering the impact of a product or system, one must consider not only the direct effects and wastage of the final product, but also the oft-unaccounted-for costs and wastage from the design process. Physical prototyping can have significant negative environmental impact, resulting in increased material waste, energy use and carbon emissions, in construction and transport. Sustainable prototyping is essential for organisations and schools seeking to employ responsible engineering practices. Digital simulation bypasses many such issues in terms of both energy and material efficiency, limiting physical prototyping (ideally removing it, unless its use is necessary) and allowing for reduced physical waste in education programmes and industrial designs, thereby enabling more sustainable best practices.