Reviewed are some current trends in engineering education in the UK, particularly those toward open and distance learning. A case study is provided that shows a recent move to develop relevant and up-to-date course materials in the area of Advanced Manufacturing Technology for undergraduates through collaboration between academic and library…

Discusses five common misconceptions that graduate students may have about their future graduate school experiences. Two of these misconceptions are that graduate school would be a continuation of undergraduate experiences and that the study of chemical engineering has nothing to do with human values, ethics, and morals. (JN)

Engineers (N=2,732) were surveyed to determine their current/planned educational level and attitudes toward continuing/graduate education. Statistical breakdowns focus on: ethnic groups; engineering fields; present job function; and current/planned degrees. Respondents view continuing/graduate education as integral to careers and further training…

Examines the benefit (or loss) to a chemical engineer with a bachelor of science degree for staying in school to earn a master's or doctoral degree. Points out that, contrary to popular belief, the economics of getting advanced degrees in chemical engineering is currently favorable. (JN)

Describes a year-long graduate plant design course. The course provides students with an appreciation of the profit motive that drives business activity, the role of the chemical engineer in achieving this goal, and historical and contemporary perspectives on chemical engineering practice. (JN)

Presented two models for educating engineers in information counseling and information management. Described the main aspects of the professional roles in these fields and which qualifications are required. A postgraduate program (Germany) which qualifies for these functions is illustrated. Alternative form of education in information science,…

Graduates and employers were surveyed on the mathematical education of engineers in Australia. This paper summarizes their views and contrasts undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The undergraduate courses tend to be more traditional and structured, while there is a need for more work emphasizing mathematical modeling for postgraduate courses.…

Discussed is the projected shortage of Ph.D.s in the natural sciences and engineering by the turn of the century. Included are reasons for the shortage and three ways to reduce the projected shortages. Topics discussed include a complete federal strategy, attracting more minorities and women, and institutional reform. (KR)

Engineering and technical colleges (N=221) responded to a questionnaire concerning various aspects of their institution (such as faculty, enrollment, research expenditures, budget, and degrees awarded). Results are provided alphabetically by institution. (JN)

Describes a graduate "residence" program at Clemson University which is sponsored by the university and local industries. Advantages for graduate students (including increased levels of financial support and opportunities to gain significant industrial research experience), faculty, and sponsoring companies are outlined. Examples of these topics…

Describes a graduate level course on the philosophy and techniques of teaching chemical engineering. Course topics include lecturing methods, test construction and grading, homework assignments, laboratory instructional methods, and methods of individual tutoring. All topics were approached using a variety of instructional strategies. (JN)

Determined if there are differences in the assessed abilities of Canadian engineers based on length of tenure as an engineer. Also determined if there are differences in abilities between Canadian engineers who have a basic engineering degree and those who have a graduate degree in addition to the basic requirements. (JN)

Describes the outstanding results obtained when a department of industrial sciences used special software on microcomputers to teach computer-aided design (CAD) as an alternative to much more expensive equipment. The systems used and prospects for the future are also considered. (JN)

Presents an introduction to the Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering program at Rice University. Describes the development of the academic and enhancement programs, including organizational structure and research project titles. (YP)

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…