Computer based education (CBE) and some possibilities for use of such systems are described. Considers instructional materials (computer programs/PLATO), benefits of CBE, recent CBE developments (focusing on PLATO), a case study of PLATO courseware development in Lower Division Engineering Curriculum, CBE authoring capabilities, CBE effectiveness,…

Reports on efforts to develop interactive general purpose programs (for very inexpensive microcomputers) to be used in engineering systems courses. Programs discussed (Microsoft Basic) include: (1) polynomial root finder; (2) partial fraction expansion; (3) transfer function frequency response; (4) transfer function simulator; and (5) Fourier…

Engineering and engineering education have continually faced a problem regarding quantity, quality, and equity (the traditional three-edged sword). Each of these three areas is defined and discussed. Suggests that these areas can be controlled only by anticipating the challenges of the next two decades. (JN)

Describes management strategies used in a large kinetics/industrial chemistry course. Strategies are designed to make instruction in such classes more efficient and effective. Areas addressed include homework assignment, quizzes, final examination, grading and feedback, and rewards for conducting the class in the manner described. (JN)

Argues that mass and energy fluxes in a fluid are vectors. Topics include the stress tensor, theorem for tensor fields, mass flux as a vector, stress as a second order tensor, and energy flux as a tensor. (SK)

Provides background information, apparatus needed, and procedures for an experiment to measure transient response of a stirred vessel. The inexpensive apparatus can be used for two different experiments, reducing cost per experiment. Both experiments use salt dilution as the method of demonstration. (Author/JN)

Presents an undergraduate laboratory experiment in which a solar collector is used to heat water for domestic use. The working fluid is moved by natural convection so no pumps are required. Experimental apparatus is simple in design and operation so that data can be collected quickly and easily. (Author/JN)

The vast majority of Americans see engineering, science, and professional programs as the most important aspect of college curricula, reveals a new survey on American attitudes toward higher education. Highlights of the survey (American Attitudes Toward Higher Education) are discussed. (Author/JN)

Highlights a comprehensive analysis of post-secondary aviation programs in the United States published in a directory available from the University Aviation Association. The "Collegiate Aviation Directory" lists findings by state and includes level of institution, accreditation, public or private, and types of programs. (JN)

Examines arguments for and against the professional school concept. Presents a professional school model master plan for Texas colleges of engineering. Guidelines and the curriculum at Texas A&M for the doctor of engineering program are examined. (CS)

Reports findings of a survey of engineers who have recently left the field of engineering education for jobs in industry or government. Salary seems to be a less important factor than is generally assumed. (Author/CS)

Reports findings of a national survey gathering information on how high enrollments have affected engineering education. Data are presented on student/faculty ratios, enrollment increases, teaching loads, and salaries. (CS)

Presents programmable calculator solutions to selected problems, including area moments of inertia and principal values, the 2-D principal stress problem, C.G. and pitch inertia computations, 3-D eigenvalue problems, 3 DOF vibrations, and a complex flutter determinant. (SK)

The use of the analog computer to plot the gain frequency of a system under test is presented. Both linear and logarithmic plots are considered. The method is applicable with almost no frequency restrictions when the system under test is simulated on the computer. (SK)

Describes a 16-week engineering and philosophy course which focuses on topics such as attitudes toward technology, values and ethics, ethical dilemmas for scientists and engineers, technological growth, and policy formation. Lists weekly topics, required and recommended readings, and topics for student papers. (DC)