In recent years, universities have been developing more robust competency-based classes for students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Competency-based education (CBE) is based on outcomes and is student-centred, creating a better learning experience. This paper provides context for competency-based education over a…

One of the guiding principles highlighted in "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" (NRC 2012) states that "children are born investigators," claiming that students construct their own understanding of the natural world even before they learn about it in formal learning settings. Even if students lack a thorough…

This paper describes the use of a student conference as a novel experience aimed at motivating students enrolled in various computer architecture courses, such as Microprocessor Systems. The goal was to increase student engagement, to decrease failure rates, and to introduce students to the world of research. This multidisciplinary experience…

U.S. institutions awarded 29,854 science and engineering (S&E) doctorates in 2006, a record high. The 2006 rise in S&E doctoral awards, 6.7% over 2005, is the fourth consecutive increase. S&E fields reaching all-time high counts in 2006 were biological sciences, computer sciences, mathematics, chemistry, social sciences, and…

This report contains analyses of key aspects of the scope, quality, and vitality of the Nation's science and engineering enterprise and global science and technology. The report presents information on science, mathematics, and engineering education at all levels; the scientific and engineering workforce; U.S. and international and development…

It is customary for engineering syllabuses to include a substantial amount of mathematics, a fact traditionally justified through their usefulness in the analysis and resolution of many technological problems. In other words, usually the role of mathematics in engineering is emphasized. Nevertheless, the opposite viewpoint could be considered as…

Describes some of the research opportunities in ceramics science and engineering at the University of New Mexico and the interdisciplinary nature of the projects that involve investigators from chemical engineering and other departments, both at the university and outside agencies. (32 references) (Author/JJK)

Presented are some characteristics of curricula in engineering which existed in various educational institutions in the United States and which lead to the award of associate degrees. A tentative classification system by which content areas can be identified is offered, along with an analysis of curricula as they existed in different institutional…

Summarizes historical development of product liability laws which allow an injured party to seek to recover damages for personal injury or loss of property allegedly resulting from defective product and reviews activities of Triodyne Inc. in gathering evidence to be used in product liability lawsuits. Sixteen references are cited. (EJS)

Summarized are definitions, trends, and the change in the views of design in engineering education since the 1950s. Four decades of report conclusions are reviewed. (CW)

This publication is the fifteenth in the series of biennial Science Indicators reports. The Science Indicators series was designed to provide a broad base of quantitative information about U.S. science, engineering, and technology for use by public and private policymakers. Because of the spread of scientific and technological capabilities around…

Surveys the human factors literature that focuses on self-report evaluations of visual fatigue resulting from use of a visual display unit (VDU). Highlights include viewing distance, color, user demographics, duration of VDU use, physiological measurements, and suggested guidelines for VDU use. (Author/LRW)

Profiles South Africa's system of 15 technikons, institutions providing 1- to 5-year programs in science, technology, engineering, business, and industry. Discusses growing enrollments, the shift away from science and technology fields, teacher qualifications, and the place of technikons in South Africa's postapartheid higher education system.…

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the field of scientific inquiry concerned with designing machine systems that can simulate human mental processes. The field draws upon theoretical constructs from a wide variety of disciplines, including mathematics, psychology, linguistics, neurophysiology, computer science, and electronic engineering. Some of the…

Compares the five classic graphic design principles used to construct visual messages--proportion, sequence, emphasis, unity, and balance--with relevant human factors research findings. Compiled by Williges and Williges (1981) these findings focus on the structuring of information for visual displays in interactive environments. (MBR)