Bridging Theory and Practice: Exploring Real-World Problem Solving for Construction Engineering Seniors

Many researchers advocate integrating real-world problem analysis into science-related subjects using case study approaches. These approaches engage students with practical issues, fostering sophisticated thinking, promoting reflection, integrating, applying prior knowledge, and developing self-management learning skills. In our university's Construction Engineering program, introducing case studies addressing real-world problems in thesis projects in the first semester of 2017 significantly improved the graduation rate, rising from 10% in 2016 to 25.9% by 2022. These enhancements across various performance metrics demonstrate the efficacy of this methodology. This research employs a non-experimental mixed-methods approach, utilizing surveys and interviews as primary data collection tools. Its objective is to assess the influence of the case study methodology on the education of Construction Engineering students. It investigates the perspectives of current students, alumni, and instructors, proposing enhancements to the comprehensive curriculum. The study involves three participant groups-students, alumni, and instructors-associated with the course responsible for final degree projects. Projects entail collaborative analysis of real cases within groups of three students. The study includes learning outcomes and evaluations assessed using course-specific rubrics to support interview findings. Graduates are expected to share insights on methodology practicality and its influence on their careers. Current students addressing real-world issues in their projects evaluate prior knowledge integration. Instructors identify process challenges and weaknesses. This collaborative effort aims to validate and enhance the case study methodology in the degree program, thereby contributing to the assessment of the program's declared learning outcomes.