Environmental Engineer Profile: Perspectives and Notes of Active Learning in Engineering Education

Abstract

The pursuit of transforming Engineering education to accommodate the advancements of industry 4.0 has sparked numerous discussions on the necessity for novel teaching methodologies. Active methodologies have emerged as a strategy for departing from traditional instruction. Although met with some resistance among certain faculty members, regulatory bodies overseeing Engineering programs at Brazilian universities have imposed requirements to align with emerging market trends. This study aims to evaluate the profile of graduates from the Environmental Engineering program at a Brazilian public university, ascertain their perceptions and demands, and investigate whether the university under scrutiny fulfills the criteria set by the engineering councils. The findings reveal that the graduate profile not only provides evidence of how the university fosters skills and competencies in engineering courses but also sheds light on the labor market demands in the present national context. Furthermore, the study establishes the significant role of active methodologies in meeting these new requirements. In conclusion, research into the graduate profile supports the university in making informed decisions regarding changes in the advancement and development of undergraduate programs, as it offers insights into the needs of professionals beyond the academic sphere.