Explains the nature of the Advanced Astronomy Camp (AAC), which is held at an observatory at the University of Arizona. For one week, students are immersed in doing science and engineering, using modern astronomical equipment under the guidance of scientists and graduate students. (DDR)

Responds to the suggestion that computational tools be used in undergraduate thermodynamics courses. Argues that instead of using spreadsheets or specially prepared programs, students can quickly develop their own worksheets and solve problems using an equation-solving software program such as MATHCAD. Emphasis is on understanding the fundamentals…

Explains that engineering education is in search of a new rationale because of changes wrought by social concerns for the environment at both the local and global levels. Argues that the changes needed are too fundamental and the rate of change too great to be dealt with adequately by adaptation. (DDR)

A survey of 260 secondary and 251 postsecondary business teachers (51% response) found that more secondary teachers thought computer training should begin at the elementary level; they were more likely to teach about computer use hazards. More postsecondary teachers reported observing students not using proper ergonomic techniques. (SK)

To equip electrical engineering students with common and transferable work skills, a program of integrative assignments was created to develop communication and teamwork skills. Discusses assignment components; the log book, a personal account of each assignment; assessment; conversion of "common skills" to competence statements, and…

In engineering companies administered by standard procedures, role playing can develop and measure competences in junior managers. Describes a role-playing exercise that develops and assesses competence in communication skills used in problem solving. Outlines the simulation's aims, resources, scenario, exercise inputs and outputs, operation,…

Describes an effective early stage computing course that provides skills needed by undergraduate chemical engineering students. Material is presented in forms that allow students to follow the logic involved and to understand relationships between the computer, programming, numerical computing, computing software packages, and practical skills for…

A virtual reality application for undergraduate chemical kinetics and reactor design education, Vicher (Virtual Chemical Reaction Model) was originally designed to simulate a portion of a modern chemical plant. Vicher now consists of two programs: Vicher I that models catalyst deactivation and Vicher II that models nonisothermal effects in…

Explains a proposed block of instruction that would give students in industrial engineering, operations research, systems engineering, and applied mathematics the basic understanding required to begin more advanced courses in simulation theory or applications. (DDR)

Advocates nurturing ability and talent in science, engineering, and technology (SET). Suggests some reasons why young people turn away from SET, discusses what is currently being done to remedy it, and recommends solutions to the problem. (NB)

Examines cross-national data findings that female enrollment in science and engineering fields increased between 1972 and 1993 in higher education. Explains that the increase was affected by women's level of enrollments in the nonscience and nonengineering fields. Suggests a positive spillover effect for women. (CMK)

Looks at equipment, process, and training aspects of backpack vacuum cleaners that facilitate good ergonomics and high productivity levels, focusing on: designing new equipment for bodies and productivity; creating comfortable backpack harnesses; improving the work process via team training; and providing ergonomic training to ensure that backpack…

This interpretive study of a Year Six classroom in North Queensland, Australia focuses on how two contrasting groups of children designed ill-defined engineering structures. The collaboration processes within the research team are explored. Classroom-related findings are also reported. (AIM)

Summarizes the American Society for Engineering Education's (ASEE) project called Engineering Education for a Changing World. Outlines each step of the project and explains the reasons for altering the theory and practice of engineering education. (DDR)

Argues on ontological grounds against the idea that technology is simply applied science. The premise of the argument is that technology can also be considered a necessary precursor to scientific knowledge. Contains 19 references. (DDR)