Mathematical software packages such as Polymath, MATLAB, and Mathcad are currently widely used for engineering problem solving. Applications of several of these packages to typical chemical engineering problems have been demonstrated by Cutlip, et al. The main characteristic of these packages is that they provide a "problem-solving environment…

This document provides a computer program which produces a graphical determination of admissible solutions for engineering problems relating to the design of prestressed concrete beams. Included is a generalized section for describing beam sections. (Author/SL)

In the 20 years since the first computers were installed in Japan, roles of systems engineers have changed. As a result, two leading educators developed a new method which has been successfully used for eight years. The development and use of method for solving engineering systems design problems is described. (JN)

Draws comparisons between the development of physics courses and the approach required to solve an engineering problem. Some major strands in the development of A-level physics and related subjects are discussed to illustrate/illuminate compromises necessary to resolve tensions that exist (such as between pure/applied approaches to physics…

This thesis presents a new iterative algorithm for solving an n by l solution vector w, if one exists, to a set of linear inequalities, A w greater than zero which arises in pattern recognition and switching theory. The algorithm is an extension of the Ho-Kashyap algorithm, utilizing the gradient descent procedure to minimize a criterion function…

Describes the use of programmable calculators in a linear algebra course at the University of Kansas. Reports that these calculators can exploit the opportunities of personal computing and allow students to concentrate on how to apply new mathematical principles to real-world applications. (JRH)

Are new approaches to transforming undergraduate learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) making a difference? If so, how? How do people know? And what next? These are the questions explored in a 1999 report from Project Kaleidoscope, which concluded by making predictions and recommendations for the coming decade. Now…

It is widely acknowledged that sustainable development is a long-term goal, which both individuals and institutions (and countries!) need to pursue. This important theme is characterized by an intrinsic complexity, since it encompasses ecological or environmental considerations on the one hand, and economic matters, social influences and political…

In product engineering there often arise design analysis problems for which a commercial software package is either unavailable or cost prohibitive. Further, these calculations often require successive iterations that can be time intensive when performed by hand, thus development of a software application is indicated. This case relates to the…

Thirty six senior students in chemical engineering were randomly assigned to three treatment groups in an experimental study that examined the impact of different instructional strategies for troubleshooting malfunctions in a computer-based simulation of a chemical processing plant. In two groups, different types of worked examples,…

An experiment in which students were required to keep journals during a civil engineering course is described. Student benefits (journals as problem-solving tools and forums for personal comments), faculty benefits (sources of background information and use as evaluation/recordkeeping tools), and five major conclusions are discussed. (JN)

Every year in the United States, the federal government, insurance companies and automobile manufacturers wreck hundreds of cars for safety-testing purposes. All this crashing comes in an effort to rate vehicular safety for the public. Inspired by numerous movies with car chases, dramatic wrecks and television commercials showing car safety tests,…

Visualizing parts, meaning interpreting the views of an object which has been represented in a drawing, is a fundamental skill in engineering. However, learning deficiencies and difficulties have been observed among engineering undergraduates, and there is a high failure rate in drawing courses. In order to determine the origin of these…

This study focused on a population of female engineering students, probing the influences of their secondary school experience on their choice to pursue an engineering course of study at university. The motivating question is: Do unique opportunities exist in an all-female secondary school mathematics classroom, which impact a young woman's…

A continuing challenge to the undergraduate chemical engineering curriculum is the time-effective incorporation and use of computer-based tools throughout the educational program. Computing skills in academia and industry require some proficiency in programming and effective use of software packages for solving 1) single-model, single-algorithm…