Engineering Curriculum Readiness: Implementing an Analytical and Communication Skills Building Course for the Technical Disciplines

Abstract

Many domestic and international students arrive at college lacking the skills needed for academic careers in engineering or engineering technology. To support academic progress and develop essential skills, TECH 101, Engineering Technology Fundamentals, was proposed, approved, and funded by the School of Engineering and Technology at a large urban public university. The course offered students the preparatory skill development needed to begin an engineering or engineering technology major. TECH 101 facilitated a completely different approach, utilizing a very rare collaboration. Course design and implementation were championed by an experienced engineering technology instructor and a uniquely qualified faculty member whose background includes both transition to college expertise as well as second language acquisition. Drawing the two diverse skill-sets together resulted in context-based activities closely integrated with hands-on technical work, as well as development of a technical vocabulary and English language skills. A small group of learners participated in the initial course offering in the fall of 2014. This Work In Progress paper will explore the unique technical and preparatory course components that promote the support of underprepared domestic and international students.