Discusses a survey of curricular allocations to mechanics in departments and schools of engineering. Tables show trends of coverage of mechanics topics and faculty perceptions of teaching and learning trends. (MLH)

Reports results of a nationwide survey on undergraduate mechanics education. These results are compared with previous surveys to document trends in mechanics education. Areas addressed include degrees granted, courses required, teaching responsibility, quality of teachers and students, subject matter taught, evaluation methods, and teaching…

Discusses the format, grading procedures, and student reaction to two undergraduate engineering courses taught by programed instruction. Statistical analysis shows that the programed instruction resulted in higher and more uniform student achievement than did the conventional instruction in the same subject area. (MLH)

Mechanics courses at West Virginia University are taught exclusively from programed instructional materials. Presents: (1) descriptions of these courses; (2) data indicating higher achievement by students participating in programed courses compared to students in courses using the lecture method; and (3) reasons for the success of the courses. (DH)

Discusses the use of a simulation language designed to teach dynamic behavior to engineering students via a digital computer. Describes specific applications of the language and the costs of implementing digital dynamic simulation. (MLH)

Presents a sample study assignment given in a first year mechanics course that allows students to work in a simplified design mode. The assignment exposes them to an "open-ended" problem requiring a combination of creativity, analytical skills, and group interaction. (BC)

Describes an instructional system, used by the University of Florida for introductory engineering courses, which employs flexible combinations of modular curriculum packages, variable pacing, programed learning materials, and computer assisted instruction. Discusses the cost effectiveness of this system compared to conventional systems. (MLH)

Describes the author's experience with a model structure used to demonstrate the difference between the idealized behavior predicted by theory and the actual behavior of a real structure. The model is a truss bridge with a span of 1.5 meters. (Author/SK)

Describes a self-paced, learning-for-mastery course in undergraduate fluid mechanics. Includes the method of course assessment, method of student evaluation, and a description of the instructor's role and work load. Summarizes aspects of self-paced instruction considered favorable and unfavorable. (GS)

Models which demonstrate the concept of moment of force in two- and three-dimensional cases and have been well received by students are described. Photographs and instructions for each model are provided. (MVL)

The main advantage of using these concepts lies in the reduction of algebraic work involved in solving certain dynamics problems. A brief analytical treatment of the acceleration center and a description of a virtual work principle for equipollent systems in the kinetics of rigid bodies are provided. (MVL)