Investigating an innovative approach for developing systems engineering curriculum: The systems engineering experience accelerator

The systems engineering Experience Accelerator (ExpAcc) is a research project in the early stages of definition and development that is focused on validating the feasibility of leveraging simulation technology to create a series of experiences that will accelerate the maturity of systems engineers. This paper leverages the approach being defined for the research project as the basis for a set of recommendations for developing systems engineering curriculum for the live classroom. The focus of the research project is to create a computer-based simulator prototype that provides an integrated, experience based learning environment intended to accelerate the learning of critical systems engineering competencies. However, the goal of providing realistic, emotionally engaging simulated experiences customized to the learner's specific needs can be applied not only to a computer simulation, but also to a live classroom simulation. In both cases, customization can be based initially on the learner's self reported assessment of their competencies and learning preferences, and subsequently on the learner's progression through the simulation. This paper introduces the research questions and research hypothesis being investigated on the research project; describes the approaches being used to create the simulator prototype that is still under development (not yet available for testing); and includes recommendations for developing systems engineering related experiences in the classroom that could potentially accelerate the student's learning of selected systems engineering competencies.