University Economic Development Association

Network

Lehigh-KEEN Initiative

Award Category: Innovation
Project Site: Lehigh-KEEN Initiative
Submitted By: Lehigh University
Contact: John B. Ochs , 610.758.4593

Abstract

The Lehigh-KEEN (Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network) initiativeis a comprehensive multi-phased initiative to revolutionize engineering education by integrating 1) entrepreneurial mindset learning (EML), with 2) engineering skillset development, within 3) our entrepreneurial education ecosystem.  KEEN focuses on student development of the many KEEN C’s including reawakening Creative Curiosity, seeking Collaborative Connections, and Creating personal, business and social value. In this partnership Lehigh faculty are still responsible for 1) engineering skillset development including the ability to Model, Make and Measure engineering systems and components, and 2) the innovation education ecosystem, including resources, habitat and culture to allow entrepreneurship education to flourish.

In this three-year partnership the objectives include 1) training 100% of the Lehigh undergraduate engineering teaching faculty, 75 in total, in the pedagogy of active collaborative entrepreneurial mindset learning, 2) developing and implementing at least one EML module in every undergraduate engineering core course to enhance skillset development, 3) building progressive engagement in EML in all courses from 1st year projects to capstone design, and 4) engaging 100% of all engineering undergraduates in EML.

To date15 faculty in cohort 1 (year 1), and 30 in cohort 2 (year) have been initiated in EML techniques.  An additional 30 will be added in 2018. Faculty represent 10 engineering majors, 4 interdisciplinary degrees, and first-year engineering.  Faculty have formed implementation teams that are following the change methodology of Strategic Doing. Deliverables have included EML modules, curriculum and key topic maps, and an implementation matrix including anticipated levels of integration and student performance taxonomies.

Finalist Presentation

UEDA Awards of Excellence Finalists presented at the Annual Summit in Long Beach on October 2-3, 2017. Summit attendees then voted for the best initiative in each category.