Enhancing University Teaching in Thermal Power Systems for Cleaner Environment with Parallel Improvements in PhD Skills Development

The Project is cooperation between Universities of Northumbria (UK), Universidad de Castilla - La Mancha (Spain), Universita Politecnica Delle Marche (Italy), Beijing Institute of Technology and Harbin Engineering University (China); Seifullin Kazakh Agro Technical University and Pavlodar State University (Kazakhstan); South Ural Sate University and Bauman Moscow State Technical University (Russia).A significant number of vehicles in the above Partner Countries are equipped with Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs) having technical and ecological performance inferior to that deployed in EU, US etc. A switch to modern ICE designs, similar to that, deployed in the developed countries, is required. New technology requires a new type of specialists with a deep knowledge of the state-of-the-art and technological advances in this area. All Partner Universities have Departments of Internal Combustion Engines or Transport. However, the current syllabus remains based on outdated materials and approach and also problems were identified in education of PhD students. The project aim is the deep modernisation of existing syllabus in advanced ICEs technology, improving quality of education and teaching, which includes enhancing existing and application of new learning and teaching tools, methodologies and pedagogical approaches. This will involve modernisation of learning outcomes and ICT based practices. At least 36 modules in all 6 partner Universities will go through modernisation. Approximately 50% of content for each of 36 modules will be renewed with structure, outcomes and teaching methods for each module being revised. In application to all 6 partner Universities the modernised part of the selected modules will worth about 180 ECTS credits. Additionally, Improvements in Skills Development of PhD students will be carried out for meeting career targets and their better integration into international community.