A study investigated the attitudes of engineering students (n=167) and graduates (n=220) who had taken courses which were enhanced to better prepare them for professional practice than conventional courses. In general, these students and graduates viewed their courses more favorably than those (n=353) in conventional courses. Some complaints were…

The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) was established to develop technically informed leadership within the Indian community by significantly and quickly increasing the number of American Indian scientists and engineers, ensuring professional growth, and developing Indian leaders through precollege culturally sensitive camps,…

An annual national study found that the eight-year trend for engineering faculty to earn more than their colleagues in other disciplines may be ending in a few years, with professors in business-related fields moving toward a salary advantage. Private college salary gains outpaced those at public institutions this year. (MSE)

An experimental group of students from an introductory engineering graphics class was required to watch 30 videotapes that presented basic concepts of engineering graphics, whereas a control group had no access to the videotapes. No differences were established between the groups. (JJK)

Discussed is a type of evaluation unlike traditional methods in that it gives students an opportunity to exercise an influence on their own situation. Planning, procedures, and recordings are described. (CW)

Describes a software library developed to teach biophysics and physiology undergraduates that includes software on (1) the Hodgkin-Huxley model for excitation of action potentials in electrically excitable cells; (2) a random-walk model of diffusion; (3) single voltage-gated ion channels; (4) steady-state chemically mediated transport; and (5)…

Describes the development of a model Web-based distance-learning graduate course in Engineering Management at Drexel University (Pennsylvania). Highlights include a new pedagogical model; vendor selection; knowledge engineering; time commitment; development management; copyright issues; and costs. (LRW)

Reports the findings of a longitudinal study of women pursuing degrees in science or engineering at the University of Washington, which utilizes a retention program called Women in Engineering. Study objectives include determining a more accurate measure of retention of women in science and engineering by tracking individual students through their…

This study examines one NSF-funded Collaborative for Excellence in Teacher Preparation and describes the complexities of such a science education reform effort. A theoretical model based in community, culture, and identity is used to address key questions: How did institutional ideologies, structures, policies, and practices influence the…

This qualitative study examined the role of discourse (verbal elements of language) and Discourse (nonverbal elements related to the use of language, such as ways of thinking, valuing, and using tools and technologies) in the process of group knowledge construction of mechanical engineering students. Data included interviews, participant…

"Chronicle of Higher Education" presents an abundant source of news and information for college and university faculty members and administrators. This January 9, 2004 issue of "Chronicle of Higher Education" includes the following articles: (1) "Regional Accreditors Penalize 13 Institutions in New England and the…

In an ever-changing labour market, university tries to make efforts to estimate the free labour market demands for university graduates. The strength of Engineering Education lies in the range and depth of fundamental knowledge the students acquire during their studies, but the abilities like: taking risk, taking initiative, teamwork,…

Purpose: The paper aims to explore the challenges of problem-based learning (PBL) as an unconventional teaching methodology experienced by a higher learning institute in Singapore. Design/methodology/approach: The exploratory study was conducted using focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews. Four groups of people were invited to…

The use of case studies to teach materials science undergraduates is an exciting and interesting educational approach. As well as helping learners to connect theory and practice, the case method is also useful for creating an active learning environment, developing key skills and catering for a range of different learning styles. This paper…

This study examines the use of Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) by undergraduate engineering students studying a business and management course. Discussing both the relationship between management and engineering and CAL applied to engineering education, this study is based on a survey of 82 undergraduates and adopts a quantitative research…