TK!Solver is a general purpose problem-solving tool allowing users to enter sets of equations that characterize problem areas in a variety of mathematically-oriented fields (finance, engineering, physics, economics). Indicates that this latest version alleviates problems found in the initial version, in particular with speed, now faster in all…

Presents results of a study to evaluate a model that indicates which factors are most important in predicting performance in engineering graduate programs. Variables tested include honors won, undergraduate grade point, full/part time student, age, marital status, children, undergraduate institution excellence, and two levels of work experience.…

Three discriminant analyses were performed for each of the different factors of work values. All dimensions discriminated effectively between liberal arts and engineering students. Liberal arts students tended to focus on general aspects of work, while engineering students maintained values relevant to specific aspects of their perceived jobs.…

Analyzes the relationship between precollege and college microcomputer use, focusing on equity (who gets access to microcomputers) and on curricular policy (how engineering colleges adapt to the advent of popular microcomputing). Computer hardware, instructional issues, and educational objectives are also considered. (Author/JN)

Describes the outstanding results obtained when a department of industrial sciences used special software on microcomputers to teach computer-aided design (CAD) as an alternative to much more expensive equipment. The systems used and prospects for the future are also considered. (JN)

The advantages of DNA hybridization procedures for classroom and clinical use can now be realized by the recent development of nonradioactive DNA labeling/detection procedures. These methods (which are described) can replace the use of isotopes in standard DNA hybridization procedures. (JN)

Findings from an American Chemical Society survey show that the pessimism that characterized the job market in 1983 has given way to a much brighter outlook as employers hire more chemists and chemical engineers. Data from the survey on the supply and demand of chemical professionals are provided and discussed. (JN)

Discusses mentoring relationships for women in engineering. Advice and guideline include: (1) advantages (meeting new people, making career decisions, development as an employee); (2) disadvantages (overdependence, ethical disagreements, personal involvement); and (3) finding and using mentors. (DH)

Discusses strategies used in a course for nonengineering students which consists of case studies of such sociotechnological problems as automobile safety, water pollution, and energy. Solutions to the problems are classified according to three approaches: education, government regulation, and technological fix. (BC)

Examines various topics related to education, careers, and social status in China. Indicates that advantages of science/technology careers are the direct result of recently adopted policies designed to encourage and make better use of China's scientists and engineers. Comments on political factors which help shape career choice are included. (JN)

Highlights findings from National Science Foundation's National Survey of Academic Research Instruments and Instrumentation which examined the amount, condition, and cost of existing equipment systems for 1982 in computer sciences, physical sciences, and engineering. Indicates that one-fourth of the equipment is classified as obsolete by…

Quality of Work Life (QWL) is involvement. It brings employees, unions, and management closer together for their mutual benefit. QWL implies a philosophical change in some basic and long-standing rules of behavior for unions as well as management. (SSH)

Bioconversion to fuels, ocean thermal-gradient power conversion, and energy systems are discussed in this last article of a three-part series on solar energy. It is noted that solar research has near-term and long-term implications for the housing industry, manufacturers of components designed for homes, and the public in general, and that…

The SUCCEED coalition, one of the NSF Engineering Education Coalitions, was founded on a vision in which all engineering graduates will possess not only highly developed technical skills, but also the attitudes and awareness needed to prosper in the contemporary workplace. This vision manifested itself within SUCCEED by the development of…

This paper describes two parallel efforts that attempt to implement a new approach to the teaching of thermal fluids engineering. In one setting, at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the subject matter is integrated into a single year-long subject at the introductory level. In the second setting, at Victoria (British Columbia,…