Applies principles of constructivism and virtual reality (VR) to computer-aided design (CAD) curriculum, particularly engineering, by integrating network, VR and CAD technologies into a Web-based learning environment that expands traditional two-dimensional computer graphics into a three-dimensional real-time simulation that enhances user…

Discussed is the underrepresentation of minorities and women pursuing graduate and undergraduate degrees in science and engineering. Two intervention programs are described in detail-Minority Access to Research Careers (MARC) and the Minority Engineering Program (MEP). (KR)

This special section includes 15 articles which examine trends in cooperative research, compare Japanese practices to see what the U.S. can learn from economic competition, and review an innovative trans-national continuing education effort in Europe. Several model programs involving companies, universities, and government agencies are discussed.…

Discusses the driving force behind interdisciplinary research organizations such as intellectual and socioeconomic needs, skepticism of the organizations and questions of research quality. Elements of successful organizations including three approaches on tenure-promotion decisions are described. (YP)

Describes a chemical engineering course for senior undergraduates and first year graduate students in biochemical engineering. Discusses five experiments used in the course: aseptic techniques, dissolved oxygen measurement, oxygen uptake by yeast, continuous sterilization, and cultivation of microorganisms. (MVL)

Explores a graduate level bioprocess engineering course in protein purification and downstream processing. Designed to provide students with hands-on training in the design and implementation of product processing for the biotechnology industry. Includes syllabus and plan of study. (MVL)

Examines the differences in the characteristics of developing and developed countries, the technological framework and projections of economic growth of developing countries, and the features of the engineering educational systems of developing countries. Discusses the compatibility of socially relevant engineering education with that of…

Analyzes an Israeli university's problem in optimizing the quality and quantity of electrical engineers in response to fluctuating enrollment. An equilibrium model considers the effect of students' occupation choice and the university's decision on the current and future demand and supply of engineers, in order to predict the equilibrium number of…

Describes the Self-Directed Process Approach (SDPA) to teaching writing, specifically in regard to teaching Technical Report Writing to a class of 114 engineering students in the National Diploma course in Nigeria. SPDA teaches students to be their own educators and to be responsible for their own improvement; hence it is especially suitable for…

The Florida International University College of Engineering and Design developed a program of incentives and rewards for undergraduate instruction. Full-time faculty with above-average teaching productivity (measured by students taught, classes taught, new courses established, new course preparations designed) were asked to submit portfolios,…

The remarkable growth of Clark Atlanta University (Georgia), a historically black institution, is attributed to aggressive pursuit of federal grants for science and engineering. After the 1988 merger of Clark College and Atlanta University, the new administration made a commitment to high-level science education through a broad research and…

This study assessed the impact of a course on information resources for engineers at the University of Michigan. Questionnaires were sent to 60 students who had taken the class and 60 who had not. Results indicated that students who had taken the course identified more resources, rated college and public libraries higher, and spent more time…

This discussion, intended for faculty new to academic advising, offers insights into common perceptions and problems encountered in advising female students pursuing majors in science and engineering. Faculty advisors can both help these students achieve their full potential and learn from them. (MSE)

Reports on a study of the mathematical needs of engineering apprentices in the United Kingdom. Finds that mathematical skills learned in general education programs do not meet requirements of the engineering profession. Recommends changes in mathematics education. (CFR)

Discusses the impact that computer-assisted technologies, including applications to software, video recordings, and satellite broadcasts, have had upon the conventions and procedures within engineering education. Calls for the complete utilization of such devices through their appropriate integration into updated education activities effectively…