Work in progress — A problem-based learning approach for systems understanding in the MSU AES program

Applied Engineering Sciences is a longstanding engineering undergraduate degree program in the College of Engineering, Michigan State University. It is at root an interdisciplinary program integrating core engineering studies, core business/management studies, and a depth-oriented “finishing area.” Over the last two years, an evolved program has been designed and implemented that retains the traditional strengths of the program while providing a strong underlying theme of systems thinking. In this WIP report we describe the new AES program, and our plans to leverage problem based learning as the core pedagogy for supporting student introduction and applications of systems thinking.