Translating theory into practice: integrating the affective and cognitive learning dimensions for effective instruction in engineering education

Abstract

Learning in the cognitive domain is highly emphasised and has been widely investigated in engineering education. Lesser emphasis is placed on the affective dimension although the role of affects has been supported by research. The lack of understanding on learning theories and how they may be translated into classroom application of teaching and learning is one factor that contributes to this situation. This paper proposes a working framework for integrating the affective dimension of learning into engineering education that is expected to promote better learning within the cognitive domain. Four major learning theories namely behaviourism, cognitivism, socio-culturalism, and constructivism were analysed and how affects are postulated to influence cognition are identified. The affective domain constructs identified to be important are self-efficacy, attitude and locus of control. Based on the results of the analysis, a framework that integrates methodologies for achieving learning in the cognitive domain with the support of the affective dimension of learning is proposed. It is expected that integrated approach can be used as a guideline to engineering educators in designing effective and sustainable instructional material that would result in the effective engineers for future development.

Keywords:

• affective-cognitive learning approach
• self-efficacy
• locus of control
• attitude

View correction statement:

Corrigendum

About the authors

Tahira Anwar Lashari received her BSc and MSc degrees in Applied Psychology from Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan. Currently she is pursuing her PhD in technical education at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia.

Maizam Alias is Professor Technical and Vocational Education at the UTHM. She holds a PhD in engineering education, an MSc in Structures and a BSc (Hons) in Civil & Structural Eng. Her research interests include engineering and technical education, instructional design, assessments and evaluation.

Zainal Abidin Akasah is Associate Professor and Head of Department in the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia. He holds a PhD in Architecture, an MSc in Building technology, a BSc in Education (Civil Eng.) and a Diploma in Architecture. His research interests are in the application of IT in architectural engineering, 3-D visualisation applications in building engineering and facilities maintenance management.

Mohd. Jahaya Kesot is a lecturer in the centre for diploma studies at the Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia. His research interest includes engineering mechanics, structural design and construction and technical education.