Problem- and Industry-Based Learning: Research, Theory and Practice

Unlike during the earlier industrial transformations, tertiary institutions have adopted a new pedagogy of problem-based learning (PBL) in which practical industry problems are used as case studies in lectures to quicken the students’ understanding of industrial operations. Industry-based learning (IBL) involves the professional placement of undergraduate students for paid work in industry, under the supervision of their lecturers and engineers in industry, in preparation for their eventual employment. The major challenge of this concept in Southern Africa has been the availability of sufficient industry placements to absorb the increased numbers of students from universities and polytechnics. This chapter outlines PBL and IBL as carried out in Southern Africa by academics and students to demonstrate their importance, impact and challenges on how engineers are expected to respond to the demands of the 4th Industrial Revolution. The chapter further outlines how systems thinking and the bridge between academia and industry can help to resolve the challenges faced in placements.