Modernization of the mechanical engineering curriculum and guidelines for computer‐aided engineering instruction

Recent advances in computer technologies have resulted in a significant paradigm shift within American industry in the engineering design process. Unfortunately, engineering education has not evolved similarly to take advantage of these new design and analysis tools within the curriculum. Thus, there is currently a significant disconnect between what universities provide for mechanical engineering education and what industry needs from the matriculated students they hire. This article examines some of the issues surrounding the use of computers in the design/analysis/manufacturing process in industry and outlines some of the problems and opportunities for universities in developing these technologies within the curriculum. Finally, a model for curriculum integration is developed and presented. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 7: 252–260, 1999