Redesigning the engineering curriculum to meet the challenge of teaching communication and thinking skills

The writing-across-the-curriculum (WAC) model is described. The goal of WAC programs is to involve all disciplines in helping students develop language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking). By integrating language skills through all departments during all four years, teachers can increase students´ learning ability, improve their communication skills, and enhance their cognitive and emotional growth. It is suggested that WAC offers (1) a well-researched understanding of the theoretical links among developing language skills, learning subject matter, and developing the cognitive maturity demanded of practicing engineers, and (2) approaches to redesigning curricula that encourage change by demonstrating ways to sequence and design assignments and courses that require little extra teaching effort while maximizing student learning. The theory and practical application of WAC are discussed