Degree Integration Projects in Biomedical Engineering: Design of a Didactic Sequence to Promote Learning

FIGUEROA GALLO, L.; LENCINA, M.F.; LUCIANNA, F.; FELICE, C.J.; MADRID, R.E.

IFMBE PROCEEDINGS

Springer Nature

Año: 2024 vol. 114 p. 350 - 358

1680-0737

The paper discusses the transformation of the Biomedical Engineering Graduation Project (GP) at the Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Tecnología de la Universidad Nacional de Tucumán (FACET-UNT). The new approach incorporated social, environmental and economic aspects in alignment with the United Nations sustainable development objectives and the new accreditation standards inArgentina. It focused on strengthening “soft” or transversal skills, such as communication, teamwork, leadership and critical thinking, which are vital for biomedical engineers to face multidisciplinary challenges. A didactic sequence composed of workshops on complementary topics is detailed. The design of the workshops was based on constructivist learning strategies and the integration of prior knowledge. They encourage active participation, collaboration, and reflection, fostering an open and equal learning environment. The positive impact of the workshopson academic performance and completion of the student’s degree is highlighted. Implementation challenges, the suggestion to implement new prerequisites to startthe GP as well as training sessions for tutors to provide better support to students,are also mentioned. Finally, it is highlighted that it seeks to prepare students toface future challenges in the field of biomedical engineering due to the growingdemand for professionals in this area, thus contributing to meet the demands ofthe industry and the welfare of society.