Learning in professional engineering and earth science: An exploratory study

The purpose of this study was to establish how a changing professional work environment influences the learning activities professional engineers and earth scientists in Alberta use to maintain competent professional performance. To this end, an exploratory study was undertaken to establish which learning activities professional engineers and earth scientists in Alberta find important for developing and maintaining competent professional performance; what professional work environment conditions are important in maintaining competent professional performance; and what factors play a role in influencing learning in professional engineering and earth science practice. An objective of this study was to broaden understanding about contemporary professional learning as a guide for improving public policy decisions and educational practice.;The findings from this study indicated: (1) professional engineers and earth scientists in Alberta report informal learning in the workplace as most important for developing and maintaining competent professional performance; (2) sufficient time and opportunity to communicate internally with coworkers is the most important factor reported for conducting work effectively; (3) there is a reported increase in complex engineering and earth science problems to which there are no easy solutions; (4) practice in an engineering, geological, or geophysical job is perceived as the most effective learning activity for professional practice; (5) respondents view APEGGA professional members as having a substantial individual responsibility for maintaining professional competence; (6) a majority of respondents oppose mandatory continuing education; and (7) greater overall employer support is desired by APEGGA professional members in assisting with continuing professional development. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).