To improve mathematics skills of freshmen, the College of Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has instituted a mathematics placement test and a summer algebra and trigonometry review program. (BB)

Discusses the conduct of a supplemental services program at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with emphases upon academic help in areas identified as major problems. Indicates that the understanding gained from this operation is helpful to evolve educational programs and admissions practices. (CC)

Described are the use of case-method teaching, educational competitions, and interactive computer-graphic instructional software to teach structural engineering concepts at the freshman level. Details of the instructional software used and the bridge competition are provided. (CW)