Describes acoustical systems utlilized for mapping ocean floors. (SL)

Presents an analysis of the deterioration of the engineering profession via the production of an oversupply of engineers. (SL)

Analyzes the development of engineering programs in Portugal based on the experience acquired at the Instituto Superior Tecnico (IST), the largest Portuguese engineering school. Describes the methodologies developed to monitor admissions and presents the analysis in terms of absolute and relative criteria based on course demand. (DDR)

Presents the module course as an effective curricular innovation within the framework of a dual-degree program in German and engineering. Three modules are offered in a series within the curriculum of EUROTECH: An International Program in Engineering at the University of Connecticut. The module functions as a vehicle for content-based instruction.…

Analysis of Modern Apprenticeships (n=2,222) in Devon and Cornwall was conducted in four industries: engineering manufacturing, hospitality, construction, and agriculture. Apprenticeship appeared to be a feasible vocational alternative to full-time education, attracting high-quality students. Trainers and career counselors played a crucial role in…

Reports on a project sponsored by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) that engages students in building solar cars in groups with kits that include a three volt panel. The design and engineering decisions are made by the students using pertinent information. (DDR)

Syndicate studies simulate industrial situations and have proved to be an effective and adaptable small-group teaching strategy in electrical and electronic engineering classes. Outlines a planning exercise for surface mounted technology: aim, execution, company management, and tasks; provides examples of a meeting agenda; workshop discussion…

Reports on a project that extended the Engineering Design Graphics curriculum to include instruction and laboratory experience in computer-aided design, analysis, and manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Discusses issues in project implementation, including introduction of finite element analysis to lower-division students, feasibility of classroom prototype…

First-year students (n=369) at an engineering institute were divided into experimental and control groups and given pre- and post-tests. Experimental groups were taught force concepts in mechanics in a constructivist way. Results found the new method helped students understand the interaction idea of the force concept. (MKR)

Describes a simple experiment that uses a CCD video camera, a display monitor, and a laser-printed bar pattern to illustrate signal sampling problems that produce aliasing or moiri fringes in images. Uses the Fourier transform to provide an appropriate and elegant means to explain the sampling theorem and the aliasing phenomenon in CCD-based…

Explains that the focus of National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) is to engage students in science and engineering activities that explore the world of communication technology. Provides a description of some hands-on exploration materials available for activities related to the theme of NSTW 1997, and includes a sample activity, The Binary…

The Society of Automotive Engineers is involved in developing middle school curriculum for technology education based on authentic engineering design challenges. The design brief model fits real-world practices and integrates science, math, and technology. (SK)

Introduces a case study on a motion picture company considering the purchase of a newly developed zoom lens in which students act as the engineers designing the zoom lens based on the criteria of company's specifications. Focuses on geometrical optics. Includes teaching notes and classroom management strategies. (YDS)

Considers the issues involved in developing the concept of the renaissance engineer for the 21st century and offers reflections on areas and specific considerations for lifelong learning. Addresses the development of e-learning within the context of professional lifelong learning as a 'disruptive' development and discusses its future role.…

Explicates the impact of an 8-week science apprenticeship program on a group of high-ability secondary students' understanding of the nature of science and scientific inquiry. Reports that although most students did appear to gain knowledge about the process of scientific inquiry, their conceptions about key aspects of the nature of science…