East-West cooperation for the enhancement of teaching and learning engineering

This discussion paper considers the fundamental differences between engineering higher education in the former Soviet countries and those described by leading pedagogical researchers in the ‘west’. In particular, considered here are aspects of student centred active learning to develop ‘professional and transferable skills’ and the involvement of industry in the curriculum. The paper was written to stimulate much needed discussion and provide a vehicle for possible future co-operations by reporting on a 2013 symposium, held at Bauman Moscow State University “Preparation of Engineers – sharing the experiences of the UK”, promoting academia working with industry. The event was attended by representatives of eleven companies with interests in Russia. A centre for excellence is proposed to form an international hub for sharing good practices and pedagogic principles that promote education relevant to today’s global employment market.