We can better connect theory with practice in engineering and science education by using project-based learning, industry partnerships, and lab simulations that let students apply abstract concepts to real-world problems. Integrating case studies, internships, and hands-on experiments bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and professional practice.

Vira Gorelova But isn't that too broad? Would you like to provide some examples in each of them?

There are two levels here.

(a) Education has a bad tendency to generate so-called 'theories' - see my chapter 'Shifts in Pedagogical theories and learning approaches',in 'Blueprint for tomorrow', Innovare Academic Sciences, 2025, pp 83-97.

(b) Part of the answer may lie in curriculum design; see the concept of the 'applications-led curriculum', pp 127-130 in 'Making sense of Learning', Springer, 2020

Vira Gorelova Thank you for sharing your ideas. I completely agree that project-based learning, industry partnerships, and lab simulations are key to making concepts tangible. In my own teaching, I’ve noticed that even small-scale simulations (e.g., using open-source software or simple prototypes) significantly improve student engagement.

Vira Gorelova In my teaching experience, students often gain much deeper understanding when they can apply abstract concepts to real scenarios. For example, in microprocessor and communication systems courses, I have used software-based simulators and small-scale prototypes to mimic industry settings, which helped students see the immediate relevance of what they were learning. Lab simulations, especially when they mirror real-world tools or workflows, not only build technical skills but also improve confidence and problem-solving abilities.

Your emphasis on integrating internships and hands-on experiments is also critical. Have you found any particular types of projects or partnerships especially effective for bridging this gap?

Vira Gorelova Wenyang Wei Thank you for your comment and for raising a very important point. I agree that broad strategies like project-based learning are useful, but without concrete examples they can be hard to replicate. In my experience, even simple activities—like analyzing real-world case studies (e.g., fault analysis in networks), building small prototypes, or simulating industry problems using open-source platforms—help students connect theory to practice. I would be very interested to hear if you have specific examples or activities that worked well in your teaching context.

Norman Reid Thank you for your detailed and thoughtful response. Your point about education sometimes creating “theories” without enough application is very valid. I appreciate the references you mentioned, especially your chapter “Shifts in Pedagogical Theories and Learning Approaches” (Innovare Academic Sciences, 2025) and the concept of the “applications-led curriculum” in “Making Sense of Learning” (Springer, 2020). These are excellent resources that highlight how curriculum design can shape how students perceive and use knowledge. I look forward to exploring these chapters further to see how such frameworks could be applied in technical programs.

Overall, I believe that combining these approaches—hands-on projects, well-chosen examples, and curriculum alignment—can significantly enhance student learning and bridge the theory-practice gap. Thank you again to each of you for contributing to this discussion.

Tariq Kanaan Hi, Tariq, I suggest that you take a look at equity compass designed by a group of researchers from University College London (UCL). They have a course on future learn, which provides many concrete examples from your engineering and science perspectives. https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/equity-informal-stem-learning-using-the-equity-compass/1/todo/138833

Engineering is a practical subject and should not have issues with the practical aspect unless we are just lecturing. Every topic in engineering is practical. Real world projects must always be intergrated with theory. There must always be hands on labs and workshops, industry collaboration, open ended problem solving, encourage prototyping , involve coding and software tools early, promote peer learning and competition, encourage entrepreneural thinking , modullarize courses, focus on communication and documentation.

Dear Janbe Oteki ,

Thank you very much for your thoughtful response. I completely agree with you that engineering is inherently practical and that hands-on labs, workshops, and industry collaboration are crucial. My intention in raising the question was not to suggest that I personally face difficulties, but rather to open a broader discussion and learn from diverse perspectives and approaches colleagues use.

I believe each of us may integrate practice into theory in slightly different ways—through case studies, simulations, competitions, or entrepreneurial projects—and hearing these variations can help broaden my own outlook and possibly inspire new ideas for teaching.

I truly appreciate your emphasis on prototyping, peer learning, and communication skills. These are important reminders that go beyond just technical knowledge and really prepare students for professional challenges.

Thank you again for sharing your insights.

Best regards,