Describes the existing educational structure in Brazil dedicated to the training of engineers and engineering technologists. (PR)

Presents an exercise that describes the direct extraction and purification of DNA from a small soil sample. Also discusses the subsequent amplification of a 343-bp Tn7 transposate A gene fragment (tnsA) from a strain of Pseudomonas aureofaciens 3732RNL11. Contains 21 references. (DDR)

Explains a novel way of approaching centripetal force: theory is used to predict an orbital period at which a toy train will topple from a circular track. The demonstration has elements of prediction (a criterion for a good model) and suspense (a criterion for a good demonstration). The demonstration proved useful in undergraduate physics and…

Investigates what two teachers learn from each other as they engage in the three-month coteaching of an engineering curriculum to Grades four and five. Provides direct and indirect evidence of teachers' knowledgability. Contains 34 references. (DDR)

A survey of 260 secondary and 251 postsecondary business educators found the former more likely to think computer ergonomic techniques should taught in elementary school and to address the hazards of improper use. Both groups stated that over half of students they observe do not use good techniques and agreed that students need continual…

Describes courses designed to complement mainstream technical graphics courses in architectural and mechanical graphics. Vocational track students and precollege students mainly benefit from these courses. Contains 23 references. (DDR)

Investigates the linkage between German studies and engineering and how it affects the learning environment and quality for students. Linking two different modes of scholarly investigation and teaching--engineering and humanities--has attracted and retained a significant number of women. In addition to the positive effects on students, this…

Focuses on the international and engineering program at the University of Rhode Island. Set against the background of revision of German studies that has taken place over the last several years, the program provides an example of successful alliance of language with a scientific program. This alliance has combined richness, rigor,…

Presents arguments for and against the theory and practice of genetic engineering. Considers the food labeling controversy and general ethical issues related to genetic engineering. (Author/WRM)

Examines the history and concepts that are essential to educational technology as a process, focusing on the ways in which engineering, the use of science in education, and the rise of the audiovisual-education movement helped to shape the assumptions and goals of modern educational technology. Contains 39 references. (AEF)

Describes how a multimedia design team at Wayne State University (Michigan), working on an engineering-education project funded by the National Science Foundation, incorporated Kellers's ARCS (attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction) model into the design and development of a computer-based instructional module for a college engineering…

Describes an Introduction to Chemical Engineering course with particular reference to the development, use, and evaluation of four simple experiments centered around the fundamental principles of heat transfer, mass transfer, reaction kinetics, and momentum transfer. (WRM)

Discusses the class-related logbook, a semester-long writing assignment that focuses on teaching the process of using regular writing as a powerful professional tool apart from the formal documents required on the job. (WRM)

Cooperative and dual-degree programs at colleges and universities are helping to increase the number of graduates in underrepresented groups. Several undergraduate engineering-education programs involving both historically black and predominantly white institutions illustrate the effectiveness of this approach. Minority students can build…

Presents pencil-and-paper and laboratory activities to be used as part of a high school-level biotechnology unit. (WRM)