Presents a framework for model development that, when used, will help the student (or professor) avoid the major pitfalls associated with modeling. Includes not properly identifying the controlling factors, lack of model validation and developing a model that is incompatible with its end use. (CW)

The design and construction of models forms the foundation of first-year design teaching (totaling 18 class hours) in the three-year mechanical engineering program at the Royal Military College of Science. Lists the aims of this approach, providing examples of the types of models produced by students while solving engineering problems. (JN)

Describes a mathematical salary-growth model which serves as the basis of an objective conversion procedure (providing a more equitable merit-pay plan). Also demonstrates how this procedure was used and discusses additional benefits (particularly pertinent to institutions using arbitrary criteria to determine pay increments and have lock-step…

Discusses areas in the undergraduate curriculum that are important due to recent technological changes (such as contributing effectively to group projects and the ability to take advantage of continuing education opportunities). Examines possible responses to these areas, focusing on the role of computers and on the mathematics curriculum. (JN)

Describes stochastic models. Discusses the rationale for stochastic analysis and modeling, and provides a master equation for the models with respect to chemical processes. Lists 29 references. (YP)

Provides a model with which to view the instructional process and the teaching activities within it. Presents a flow chart to aid information on improvement of instruction. Stresses the importance of viewing improvement as a continuous process and utilizing feedback. (SMB)

Presents algorithms for the simulation and motion display of the three basic kinematic devices: (1) four bar linkages; (2) the slider crank; and (3) the inverted slider crank mechanisms. The algorithms were implemented on a Commodore-VIC 20 microcomputer system with 6500 bytes of available memory. (Author/JN)

The drawn ideas of inventors Edison and Bell are analyzed in a systematic way to help understand the inventive process and how inventors think. By storing sketches on a computer the researchers have been able to recreate the probable lines of reasoning used by the inventors. (KR)

Demonstrating petroleum engineering concepts in undergraduate laboratories often requires expensive and time-consuming experiments. To eliminate these problems, a graphical simulation technique was developed for junior-level laboratories which illustrate vapor-liquid equilibrium and the use of mathematical modeling. A description of this…

Described are the rationales for the Engineering Practices Introductory Course Sequence (EPICS) program at the Colorado School of Mines, and the McMaster Problem-Solving (MPS) program at McMaster University. The professional development model used in these programs is discussed. (CW)

Describes a method of teaching problem-solving to engineering undergraduates at Coventry (Lancaster) Polytechnic. The teaching model, which consists of a series of component activities, employs a methodological approach to problem-solving in the area of engineering design. Applications of the model to other forms of problem-solving are briefly…

The approach taken to chemical engineering education at New Mexico State University is described in this report. The curriculum model for its undergraduate and graduate program emphasizes both content and skill development. Involvement in tasks related to ongoing research projects is stressed and serves as the basis for course assignments at the…

Presented is an outline of how to write a proposal for funding for engineering education research. Describes the five basic components of the prospective problem statement, objectives, procedures, evaluation, and budget. Information on public and private funding agencies and the three types of grants available, and projects, research, and…

Describes five statistical simulation programs developed at Wichita State University--Coin Flip and Raindrop, which demonstrate the binomial, Poisson, and other related distributions; Optimal Search; QSIM; and RANDEV, a random deviate generation program. Advantages of microcomputers over mainframes and the educational uses of models are noted.…

Described is a graduate level engineering course on functional analysis offered at Purdue University. The course restricts itself to linear problems, specifically analysis of linear operators on vector spaces. Key applications in the course demonstrating the utility of abstract formulations are presented. (BT)