A system-based framework for engineering education as sustainable development

ABSTRACT

Engineering education is pivotal in driving sustainable development forward, yet many engineers encounter hurdles stemming from insufficient preparation for sustainability challenges. A major factor contributing to this is the lack of a structured and practical framework to guide the integration of sustainability into engineering education. This study addresses this gap by presenting a system-based framework tailored to ‘engineering education as sustainable development.’ The framework outlines a dynamic and inclusive organisational system, incorporating inputs from key stakeholders, a value-and-belief subsystem, throughput processes, and resultant outcomes. These outcomes encompass the cultivation of a new cohort of engineering graduates equipped with sustainable development knowledge, skills, and values/attitudes, thereby fostering the sustainable well-being and prosperity of all stakeholders involved. Additionally, the study examines the intricate relationships, including feedback loops, among system components and concludes by offering insights for practitioners to consider for future action and implementation.

KEYWORDS:

• Engineering education
• sustainability
• sustainable development
• education for sustainable development
• general systems theory‌
• conceptual framework

Acknowledgements

The author extends sincere appreciation to Professor Dr. Philip Hallinger and Professor Dr. Sooksan Kantabutra from the College of Management, Mahidol University, for their invaluable insights, guidance, and encouragement. Their support has significantly contributed to the author’s professional development and continuous efforts to promote research and practice in sustainable development.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study received funding from the ASEAN Centre for Sustainable Development Studies and Dialogue (ACSDSD) at Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.

Notes on contributors

David Kongpiwatana Narong

David Kongpiwatana Narong is a Ph.D. candidate in the Sustainable Leadership program and a doctoral research fellow at the ASEAN Centre for Sustainable Development Studies and Dialogue (ACSDSD) within the College of Management at Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. His research focus encompasses engineering, education, and sustainability. He earned his undergraduate degree in engineering and graduate degrees in quality assurance, business administration, and education. He has over 20 years of industry experience. He is a licensed Professional Engineer, a certified Project Management Professional, and a certified Project Controls Professional. His core values are rooted in diversity and inclusion, excellence and respect, and a lifelong commitment to learning.