Development of a Core Curriculum in Miniaturization Technologies

As the development of micromechanical devices and systems advances, diversity among processes is increasing. To transfer these technologies from university laboratories to the industrial sector requires graduates with a knowledge of the advantages and limitations of the processes and the ability to synthesize system concepts that can be more easily manufactured. Six introductory courses were developed based on transferring micromanufacturing research results into the classroom, and tutorials in several key areas were developed for access via the World Wide Web and CD-ROM. The courses were intended to provide an overview to baccalaureate graduates entering industry so they can determine if micromechanical technologies might be applicable in their respective companies. For students continuing with graduate studies, the courses were intended to provide a sufficient understanding in microtechnologies so they could adapt and integrate them into their research. Assessment of the courses was accomplished partly by standard student assessment instruments, but mostly by written feedback from students on how well the courses helped prepare them for graduate research and employment in a field utilizing micromanufacturing.