Proposal of a learning tool for introduction to petroleum engineering subject and recommendations for modification of petroleum engineering curricula in Colombian universities

Abstract

A learning tool is proposed from the matrix of competences for graduating engineers presented by SPE Talent Council in order to provide a consistent instrument for teaching the subject of Introduction to Petroleum Engineering. In addition, this learning tool is used to analyze current curricula of petroleum engineering in the main colombian universities and recommend some adjustments to improve the programs and enhance the professional skills and the expectations alignment of future engineers. A more condensed and visual perspective of the SPE Graduate Matrix is presented. The most important features of the learning tool based on the prime competences required by oil and gas industry are shown, as well as its potential use for standardizing the teaching of the subject of introduction to petroleum engineering. In addition, new trends of knowledge sets such as soft skills, unconventional reservoirs, and data science are discussed. Based on the previous analyses, a comparative chart is built to assess the current content of petroleum engineering curricula in Colombian universities and several recommendations are proposed in order to achieve the required level in the professional profiles of future petroleum engineers and to guarantee the expectations alignment of these new professionals. In general terms, there is a prominent need for including courses on offshore technologies, field operations, data science and applied statistics and economics to strength the current curricula in Colombia.