Background: Laboratory studies explore the norms and characteristics of scientific practice and explain the constructive nature of knowledge production. However, how learning and research are sustained in engineering research laboratories at the graduate level requires further investigation. Purpose: We explored the cultural characteristics of an…

This dissertation builds on an alternative framework for evaluation of science, technology and innovation (STI) outcomes--the scientific & technical (S&T) human capital which was developed by Bozeman, Dietz and Gaughan (2001). At its core, this framework looks beyond simple economic and publication metrics and instead focuses on…

Given the importance of hydrocarbons for this area, the purpose of this paper is to explore the response of universities to cope with new demands in the south of Texas and Tamaulipas, especially in relation to gas plays of Eagle Ford (Texas side) and Burgos Basin (Mexican side). To accomplish this task, in the first section of the paper a broad…

Faculty from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the College of Education at the University of Missouri (MU), Columbia, developed a novel course for engineering graduate students emphasizing pedagogy and professional skills. The two-semester course sequence, titled "Preparing Engineering Faculty and Professionals,"…

The sympoisum was held to describe the roots and future plans of the Engineering Research Center's (ERC's) concept and program. The first section of this symposium compilation describes the national goals that the ERCs represent. The second section presents the point of view of the National Science Foundation on the ERCs--the concept behind them,…

The National Science Foundation Act of 1950 stipulates that the National Science Foundation (NSF) must maintain a program for determining the total amount of money for scientific and engineering research received from federal agencies by each educational institution and appropriate nonprofit organization, and to report these data annually to…

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Act of 1950 stipulates that NSF must maintain a program for determining the total amount of money for scientific and engineering research received from federal agencies by each educational institution and appropriate nonprofit organization and to report these data annually to Congress and the President. NSF…

This publication outlines the involvement of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) programs in aeronautics and space research. NASA aims to assist HBCUs in science, engineering, and technology programs and also to encourage greater participation of minorities in its…

Reports that the space agency provides universities with resources to invigorate and increase the effectiveness of space-related engineering research and education. Lists selected University Space Engineering Research Centers with a description of their concept, a program schedule, information and address for submitting future proposals for a…

Outlines one university's process of planning and preparing a successful proposal for a space research center which focused on a broad, cross-disciplinary study. States that as a result of the center, four new graduate courses were offered and a higher than average enrollment was attracted to the school. (RT)

This document concerns the operation and evaluation of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Engineering Research Center (ERC) program. Included with a general letter addressing the operation of the program are several appendices which attempt to answer the questions put forth in the letter. These appendices include considerations of: (1)…

The purpose of this study was to collect and interpret facts relating to the need for, and use of, continuing education by research and development (R and D) scientists and engineers in large industrial and government R and D laboratories. The top management, personnel executives, training executives, scientists, and engineers employed at various…

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)

This paper discusses the history, prospects and impacts of university technology and research parks. The main question addressed is: what are the short-term and long-term impacts of such parks on engineering education and its mission? The first technology park, at Stanford, and other early parks are used as examples to assess some of these…

Six major engineering research centers at universities have been funded by the National Science Foundation as part of a program to foster university-industry cooperation. The focus for each center is discussed, and the general purpose of the entire program (to bridge the gap between knowledge and application) is briefly examined. (DH)