New Asian Case Method for tribology: A structured approach for increased problem solving competence in tribology teaching and research

Abstract

The gap between academic science/engineering and industry concerning problem solving competencies is addressed in this paper by proposing the New Asian Case Method, an approach inspired by, but substantially different from, the trademark of professional education of the Harvard Business School. The paper puts forward the idea that knowledge in tribology shall be arranged in cases with practical examples that allow students and researchers to learn tribology on real world problems, and obtain a toolbox they subsequently use in their work as tribologists in academia or industry. Micro- and nanotribology are accentuated as high potential role model fields for successful interdisciplinary, inherently application oriented approaches. The New Asian Case Method increases quality approaches in tribology, by structuring the ways of thinking and addressing problems. Establishing the New Asian Case Method in tribology shall set the basis for an international standard in the field.