The role of laboratory work in engineering education: student and staff perceptions

Most science-based courses include practical experimental activity in the laboratory. Many academics and authoritative bodies would claim that a significant level of such activity is essential to the formation of technologists. This paper reviews the literature on laboratory practice. It also reports on an internal survey of staff and student perceptions of the practical work and its value in their courses in the School of Engineering at the Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen. It discusses the degree to which practices both within and outwith the School appear to match the declared aims of participants. It concludes by suggesting some strategies, which may lead to laboratory work becoming more effective.