An educational program developed by The University of Texas at Austin’s Department of Mechanical Engineering will be featured in the National Academy of Engineering’s Real World Engineering Education publication.
The Project-Centered Education in Mechanical Engineering program, known as PROCEED, is one of 29 exemplary programs selected to serve as models for institutions that have not yet developed their own curriculum. The publication informs a variety of audiences including universities and industry about the best engineering practices nationwide.
“This recognition by the National Academy is a tribute to the innovation and hard work of the entire University of Texas at Austin mechanical engineering faculty,” said Phil Schmidt, a mechanical engineering professor and leader of the program. “Project-centered education requires extraordinary effort on the part of both faculty and students. We believe the results are justified in the outstanding preparation of our graduates to enter the profession and to become leaders. “
PROCEED is a department-wide curriculum reform effort initiated in 2000, aimed at more closely tying all elements of the mechanical engineering undergraduate experience to real-world engineering.
Since 2001, the program has supported 15 curriculum and laboratory development projects, most of which have been successfully integrated into the core mechanical engineering curriculum.
“More than half of all mechanical engineering faculty are actively involved with the program,” said Department of Mechanical Engineering Chair and Professor Jayathi Murthy. “We have achieved a great amount in a short period of time due to the efforts of our faculty and students”.
Highlights of the program include:
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Developing integrated lecture/lab courses in materials science and engineering, thermal-fluid sciences, dynamic systems and controls, and mechatronics, with the implementation of new and reequipped labs in all these areas.
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Integrating Reverse engineering of commercial products as a centerpiece of all design courses, including the freshman introductory course
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Introducing Engineering Design and Graphics, which has received national awards for curriculum innovation.
The National Academy of Engineering is an independent, nonprofit institution that advises government and the public on issues in engineering and technology. Its members consist of the nation's premier engineers, who are elected by their peers for their distinguished achievements.
