St. Louis, Missouri
June 18, 2000
June 18, 2000
June 21, 2000
2153-5965
4
5.404.1 - 5.404.4
10.18260/1-2--8506
https://peer.asee.org/8506
389
Session 2326
Introducing Freshmen to Engineering at Western Kentucky University
Stacy S. Wilson
Western Kentucky University
I. Introduction
In the past few years, Western Kentucky University (WKU) has developed a freshman seminar course entitled University College 101 (UC101) for the entire university. The purpose of this course is to introduce freshman to college life and equip them with the appropriate skills to succeed at the university level. Topics include study skills, time management, academic regulations, career planning, etc.
Each department is allowed to present its own versions of the freshman course to the students in their major. The Electrical Engineering Technology (EET) program in the Department of Engineering Technology at WKU has developed a freshman seminar course that meets the university requirements and also introduces the freshman to electrical engineering. This course examines the different aspects of electrical engineering and develops the problem-solving skills of the students. During the semester, the students study the history of engineering, the responsibilities of engineering, professional registration, and engineering ethics. Students also develop a foundation for problem-solving skills through various assignments. An important aspect of this course is the introduction of teamwork skills. Early in the semester the students are divided into teams to complete several assignments including building a simple robot.
II. University College 101
The university college course (UC101) is required for all beginning freshman and transfer students with less than 24 hours of course credit who are enrolled full-time. All sections use at least 50% of class time to cover core content and approximately 25% of class time on the Library Media Education component. This course is designed to enhance student success, retention and graduation. Through active learning, students develop effective study skills, library research skills, management of time and resources, and enhance personal lifestyles through wellness activities and campus involvement. This course directly supports the mission and objectives of WKU which include academic achievement and student success. UC101 provides entering students with guidance to cope with the transition to college studies and to make informed decisions regarding the selection of their programs of study.
Wilson, S. S. (2000, June), Introducing Freshman To Engineering At Wku Paper presented at 2000 Annual Conference, St. Louis, Missouri. 10.18260/1-2--8506
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