Discusses the use of laboratory courses as an invaluable teaching aid to assist in meeting both social and technical objectives. The use of laboratories in conjunction with technical theory courses, as well as in making students aware of their responsibilities to themselves, their teams, and to the instructor are described. (BC)

Presented are the accreditation standards for engineering schools as developed by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Discussed are various challenges presented by the standards and the need to improve engineering education. Items considered are developing a definition of a "good" engineering education, topics…

Reexamines the recommendations of "A National Action Agenda for Engineering Education." Cites at least one exemplary effort related to each. Covers the overburdened curriculum; practice oriented graduate programs; design, manufacturing, and construction; instructional laboratories; faculty pool, professional development for faculty;…

Presented is a blueprint for restructuring the first two years of the engineering curriculum. Four new concepts for the first two years are discussed: (1) the mathematical and scientific foundations of engineering, (2) fundamentals of engineering, (3) the engineering laboratory, and (4) the professional and personal enrichment program. (MVL)

Points out three areas that the American engineering community must consider related to global competition: technology, languages, and cultural understanding. Several American and foreign universities' efforts to include the topics in their programs are examined. (MVL)

Discusses the restructuring of the graduate program to accommodate emerging fields in engineering. Notes half of the graduate degrees Cornell grants each year are M.Eng. degrees. Offers 12 specialties: aerospace, agriculture, chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical and nuclear engineering; computer science, engineering physics; geological…

Discusses a two-year masters program; one year of lecture and practical training, and a second year on a supervised design task in an industry or development laboratory. Reviews the emphases of the curriculum. Describes the two paths to engineering careers in the Netherlands. (MVL)

Describes the comprehensive approach taken by the Center for Pre-College Programs at New Jersey Institute of Technology to motivate and prepare students for higher education. Discusses precollege programs, secondary school programs, and elementary school programs. Explores the impact of the program on the success of the students. (MVL)