Interviews with trainers in 23 engineering firms confirmed the relationship between innovative training and ability to cope with skills shortages. Strategies identified were (1) evangelical, involving active outreach, direct relevance, and incentive; and (2) pastoral, characterized by education, support, and facilitation. (SK)

Analysis of Strong Interest Inventory Scores from 205 Mexican and 342 U.S. male engineering students/professionals had the following results: (1) interest structure was similar across cultures; (2) Holland's calculus assumption was supported; and (3) a circular rather than an equilateral hexagonal structure was supported. (SK)

Describes a university's format and development of an international engineering program that includes a six-month engineering internship in a German-speaking country. (Author/CB)

Notes environmental factors affecting adult learning situations: territoriality, seating arrangements, sightlines, and equipment. A checklist for conducting a space audit includes features inside and outside the classroom. (SK)

A methodical approach to teaching that can be used with almost any class style and with any instructional media is described. Planning courses, designing a syllabus, teaching strategies, the use of office hours, test construction, and personal interaction with students are discussed. (KR)

Addresses the issue of assuring quality software for use in computer-aided instruction and presents a structure by which developers can create quality courseware. Differences between courseware and computer-aided instruction software are discussed, methods for testing software are described, and human factors issues as well as instructional design…

Summarized are definitions, trends, and the change in the views of design in engineering education since the 1950s. Four decades of report conclusions are reviewed. (CW)

Described are the rationales for the Engineering Practices Introductory Course Sequence (EPICS) program at the Colorado School of Mines, and the McMaster Problem-Solving (MPS) program at McMaster University. The professional development model used in these programs is discussed. (CW)

Suggests that over the next 20 years the evolution of communication technologies may offer a critical opportunity for researchers to positively shape the channels of mediated human communication. Focuses on communication research's role in new communication media. Sketches out a possible research response: a "human factors approach" to…

Describes amber and its hardened form called copal. Explains how amber is formed and where it comes from. Discusses possibilities of obtaining DNA from insects caught in amber. (PR)

Explores the issue of physics laboratory work for engineering students and discusses the design, implementation, and evaluation of a laboratory program developed for first year engineering students. (DDR)

Offers guidance on selecting appropriate seating furniture for outdoor facilities, arenas, auditoriums, and lecture rooms. Considerations such as beam mounting systems to facilitate laptop computer and campuswide networking use by students and chair durability and ergonomics are discussed as are tips for choosing a seating remanufacturing company.…

Reviews prior research, updates recent research, and comments on directions for future research on the baccalaureate origins of women doctorates. Examines physical-science- and engineering-doctorate productivity in particular. Contains 28 references. (DDR)

Describes an innovative science program for girls developed by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Girl Scouts of America (GSA). Presents results from the model project. (DDR)

Discusses the rise of posture-related discomfort and injury in children using computers in their classrooms and explores the research in the area. Recommends greater effort in encouraging school furniture manufacturers to create ergonomically appropriate computer workstations. Advice on what children can do to lessen musculoskeletal discomfort…