MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT NOVEMBER 1997 UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON

A newsletter for alumni, students, and friends of the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Message From the Chair

"What makes a good mechanical engineering education?"

Kenneth W. Ragland (48K JPG)

Our engineering curriculum changes gradually over the years in response to changing technology and societal needs. Curriculum changes are accelerating in response to the assessment process we are undertaking. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) has changed their method of certification to one based on outcomes assessment of the students rather than prescription of courses. Because of this, the ME faculty have been clarifying our educational goals. Some of these goals are currently well met while others will stimulate further modifications to the curriculum. Here is where we are at this time with regard to the BS program. We welcome your feedback.

Every graduating mechanical engineer should be able to:

• create two-dimensional drawings and their annotations, generate three-dimensional computer-based geometric models of mechanical components.

• mathematically analyze components and systems for mechanical and energy performance.

• specify and evaluate manufacturing steps and materials for mechanical components, evaluate economic and quality aspects of product realization.

• integrate electromechanical motors/actuators, power converters, and computer interfaces in creatively designed computer controlled products.

• design and conduct experiments to measure the performance of components and systems, analyze and interpret data and communicate results.

• creatively design mechanical components and systems to meet an objective.

Every graduating mechanical engineer should have:

• competence in math and science sufficient to be successful in a changing engineering profession.

• exposure to actual engineering practice.

• understanding of the design and operation of selected engineering products and systems from a mechanical engineering perspective.

• leadership/management experience.

• a sense of engineering ethics.

• technical report writing and oral communication skills, team-building skills.
• knowledge of societal and environmental issues in relation to technology.

If you would like to respond to these proposed goals, please contact the editor via e-mail: gawenda@engr.wisc.edu write to the Department of Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 1513 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706-1572.

NOVEMBER 1997 Contents