Concept Maps: a Strategy for the Development of Technical Reports on Industrial Engineering Problems

In this article we present a study case on the use of concept maps as a strategy for the development of technical reports on industrial engineering problems. These problems occur in complex, multidisciplinary environments that require the application of technical and social systems knowledge which is analyzed by an engineer in order to propose effective and efficient solutions. This case seeks to contribute to the development of engineers’ skills through the construction of answers to investigative questions, based on a review of appropriate literature. To validate this contribution, the performance of students in the construction of these reports and concept maps was analyzed. A tool for measuring the students’ perception of the utility and ease-of-use of the concept maps was also designed. The performance and perception results evidence the utility of the concept maps as a strategy for handling industrial engineering problems.