Describes the problems encountered in the design and implementation of a complete, computerized retrieval system for the engineering and architectural drawings of several large Southern California land development firms: developing a specialized cataloging system and format, a customized thesaurus, computer software, and managerial procedures. The…

This report investigates the feasibility of including computer aided design (CAD) materials in engineering courses. Section 1 briefly discusses the inevitability of CAD being adopted widely by British industry and the consequent need for its inclusion in engineering syllabi at all levels. A short description of what is meant by CAD follows in…

The design and implementation of a complete, computerized retrieval system for the engineering and architectural drawings and maps of several large land development firms are discussed. Such collections present unique problems to the cataloger. Each collection is limited in geographic scope to the land owned or developed by the firm; types of maps…

An undergraduate course given at the University of California at Berkeley using a conceptual rather than rote learning approach is described and outlined. Student perceptions of the course design and content are featured, and the study is illustrated with course flow charts and sample drawings. (MSE)

A project was conducted in Virginia to develop a coordinated, articulated, competency-based curriculum for selected industrial arts areas from an identified common core of competencies. The competencies would include a set of performance objectives, a set of criterion-referenced measures, and a set of instructional resource guides in the…

Until recently, computer-aided drafting and design (CAD) systems were almost exclusively operated on mainframes or minicomputers and their cost prohibited many schools from offering CAD instruction. Today, many powerful personal computers are capable of performing the high-speed calculation and analysis required by the CAD application; however,…

Studies whether traditional drafting equipment (TRAD) or computer aided drafting equipment (CAD) is more effective. Proposes that students using only CAD can learn principles of drafting as well as students using only TRAD. Reports no significant difference either on achievement or attitude. (MVL)

North Seattle Community College decided to integrate computer-aided design/drafting (CAD/D) into its Electro-Mechanical Drafting Program. This choice necessitated a redefinition of the program through new curriculum and course development. To initiate the project, a new industrial advisory council was formed. Major electronic and recruiting firms…

Argues for a legitimate role of manually expressed engineering graphics within engineering education as a needed support for computer-assisted drafting work. Discusses what and how students should learn as well as trends in engineering graphics education. Compares and contrasts manual and computer drafting methods. (CW)

Contrasts the role of scientific diagrams in school classrooms with their role in the world of practicing scientists. Uses the role differences as a source for a new approach. Describes some practical strategies for classroom implementation. (Author/YP)