The use of video essays and podcasts to enhance creativity and critical thinking in engineering

The current demands of the labor market demand a new compendium of skills from engineering graduates. To develop skills at a more complex level, this study analyzed the use of second-generation Video Essays and Podcasts to improve soft skills. The characteristics of students belonging to Generation Z as digital natives were considered and digital platforms were adapted for interaction in social networks to enhance critical thinking and creativity (Criticality). Active learning experiences in different engineering programs were analyzed using the 4-group Solomon methodology with a quantitative design and different assessment instruments were used for Pre-Tests and Post-Tests, including various fluency and originality tests, as well as answering articulation ability tests. and modified VALUE rubrics from the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U). Our results clearly suggest that the use of these two tools substantially improves understanding of scientific concepts in engineering subjects, a greater ability to develop increasingly in-demand skill sets, and a greater awareness of creative thinking competence.