We propose in this paper an analysis of the concept of computer-supported educational systems engineering. We first propose a definition of engineering in this context: works that aim at providing reusable and/or reproducible methods and techniques that facilitate the construction and deployment (conception - design - experimentation - evaluation - dissemination) of computer-supported educational systems (in the context of present computer science) that allow to go beyond an ad hoc approach of the solving of problems. Using the knowledge engineering example, we highlight what are the interest of working on engineering. Then, we put into evidence that the fundamental problem we have to face is that of the articulation between engineering and theoretical basements. Finally, we discuss how we can go forward towards computer-supported educational systems engineering.