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Session 1430

Systems Model for Improving Standards and Retention in Engineering Education

Yaw A. Owusu

FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Florida A & University

Abstract

This paper describes a systems model for improving standards in engineering education and at the same time maintaining high retention rate for all engineering students in the educational system. A systems approach methodology adopted for this research is a technique of taking into account all relevant factors affecting quality education and student retention. A four-step procedure has been adopted for the model, namely: problem diagnosis, evaluation and analysis, system model design, and design implementation.

Introduction

Currently, in the United States of America, the demography indicates that the traditional source of American engineering pool of labor force (mainly White males) has declined and will continue to decline while ethnic minority population of Blacks, Hispanics, and women has increased and will continue to increase. Thus, the future of both industry and academic institutions will have to look at non-traditional sources of professional labor force, including future engineers and scientists in order to fill the thousands of jobs requiring a formal education in engineering. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new model of engineering education in order to improve standards and retention of all engineering students including women and ethnic minorities.

The paper discusses ten most important desired attributes (or standards) expected of engineering graduates. These attributes include: communication skills, technical knowledge, ability to define problems and come up with concise solutions, understanding the impact of engineering decisions on the environment, teamwork, creativity and critical thinking, appreciation for practical knowledge, importance of continuing education, engineers willing to work on factory floor, and understanding the concept of cross- functional training.

Proceedings of the 2001 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2001, American Society for Engineering Education

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Owusu, Y. (2001, June), Systems Model For Improving Standards And Retention In Engineering Education Paper presented at 2001 Annual Conference, Albuquerque, New Mexico. 10.18260/1-2--9843