Bright Research Future at the Department of Learning in Engineering Sciences
Learning in Engineering Sciences is evaluated as the strongest environment of its type and as the leader in Engineering Education Research in the Nordic countries.
No.1 placement leading the Nordic countries
We are seen to be high impact, a unique and high performing department with a number one placement in the area, leading the Nordic countries in this type of research and development activity. Our mix of teaching, service to the university, development and research was seen to be outstanding.
Time for a change in the funding models
We are doing a fantastic job according to the panel head. We are seen as very productive in terms of the funding we receive. KTH allocates funding based on historical performance, but a suggestion for a change in the funding model was mentioned. Engineering education needs to expand to be interdepartmental to a greater extent. Identify the other ITM departments we can collaborate more strongly with with the goal of increasing critical mass and also funding.
We need to grow through external funding to a greater extent.
Professionalisation of application processes can help us to expand our external funding base. See if synergies between departments can help us in the form of coaching in terms of generating external input in terms of grants and industry partnerships.
Department of Machine Design was praised for 50% publications in co-authorship with international collaborators. We should look at how to learn from their successes. Perhaps we need to enhance the international character of our publications.
Faculty resources
The panel felt that the number of academic research faculty was limited in relation to departmental ambition. Balance is needed between the services and the research components of our mission where both must be highly valued. Senior and midcareer staff are well positioned and the networks are extensive, huge potential to influence Engineering education research worldwide.
Lifelong Learning
The panel was envious that KTH has The Department of Learning. Unique position, and focus on Lifelong Learning was seen to be a way to move forward where there is a considerable opportunity in terms of activity to help reskill industry. Action research orientation was really strongly appreciated.
"I think we can all be very proud of our department and I look forward for us doing great deeds and using this result to help improve our department and our contribution to the world and KTH".
