Background: The concepts of size and scale in nanotechnology are difficult for most beginning engineering students to grasp. Yet, guidance on the specific aspects of size and scale that should be taught and assessed is limited. Purpose: This research sought to empirically develop a framework for size and scale conceptualization and provide a…

This paper reports an evaluation of a curriculum development project aimed at promoting interest and understanding among elementary school students in engineering and technology through activities integrated into their school's teaching and learning program. In collaboration with students, teachers and school administrators, we developed…

The current face of the dairy manufacturing industry has changed from its traditional conception. Industry emphasis is moving away from traditional dairy products, such as fluid milk, ice cream, and butter, and moving toward yogurts, dairy beverages, and value-added products incorporating ingredients derived from milk and whey. However, many…

Do young children naturally develop the foundations of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)? And if so, should we build on these foundations by using STEM curricula in preschools? In this article, Douglas Clements and Julie Sarama argue that the answer to both these questions is yes. First, the authors show that young children possess…

The teacher plays an important role in the Technology and Design (T&D) classroom in terms of guiding students in their design process. By using concepts developed within engineering philosophy along with a framework for teacher-student interactions the design process in a T&D classroom is classified. The material shows that four of six…

In this paper, we present a microanalysis of a specialized STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) high school teacher's experience of self-initiated science inquiry curriculum reform. We examine the meanings of these two constructs: "inquiry curriculum" and "curriculum change" through the process lens of interactions, actions,…

Although there has been considerable focus on the underrepresentation of minorities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines and the need for science instruction that fosters diversity, much of the associated effort has focused on the goal of diversity and tended to assume that science and science learning are…

Florissant Valley Community College has integrated Engineering Technology education into a comprehensive community college setting. Problems of implementation and some of this institution's means of solving them are presented as a case study. The history of the institution is presented to include information about the staff and the initial…

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)

Discusses the Undergraduate Curriculum Development in Engineering program. Provides a short history of the program. Describes 10 curriculum projects ranging from engineering design to industry participation. Each program is encouraged to develop: analytical ability, ability to innovate and synthesize, integrating ability, and contextual…

This interim report of the American Society for Engineering Education is intended to keep members informed and encourage them to offer viewpoints on current issues. Recommendations given relate to lifelong education, programs and curricula, accreditation, teaching methods, supply and demand, communication with the public, society, certification,…

This paper describes ideas initiated as a step toward reaching a better understanding of the design process, the factors affecting engineering design, and how the engineering design process might be beneficially influenced. The starting point for the effort was a consideration of: (1) the recent historical development of Systems Engineering, and…

Summarizes curriculum guidelines for the following engineering technologies: chemical, industrial, mining, petroleum, nuclear, civil, mechanical, electrical, automotive, and manufacturing. In a few years, these Engineering Council for Professional Development committee guidelines are intended to become the criteria by which programs will be judged…

Compares education in technology contrasted to education about technology by discussing epidemic models and public health engineering to illustrate problems in developing the former type of course. Problem areas include course emphasis (artifacts or system analysis), role of hands-on experiences, and the transdisciplinary nature of technology. (BC)

The lack of consistency and uniformity throughout California concerning program and course objectives, titles and content, prompted the study reported in this article. Community colleges statewide were included in the study. Curricular characteristics of engineering technology and industrial technology programs were recommended and definitions…