| Abstract: | The practice of engineering - and its counterpart engineering technology - is predicted to be exceedingly different in the future than it is now. The desired end product of an undergraduate engineering technology program is raw material for industry. Therefore we have to address the needs of the industrial sector and provide an academic environment that prepares for expected global technological changes. The National Academies Press published a paper in 2004 that stated "Its principal focus is on the future of the undergraduate engineering education in this country, although it is appreciated that to understand the full perspective, engineering practice and engineering education must be considered in a global context." Educational institutions have started to prepare for those changes which will require a considerable re-development of the educational process: new labs, equipment, faculty, courses, teaching methods, etc. We need to decide, for example, whether to consider new engineering technology programs in view of all the current concern and activity, or initially fashion a program that has current possibilities and, possibly, future limitations. This paper will discuss the need to consider the incorporation of new program areas. This may include cultural/language requirements, bio-engineering, alternative energy and, particularly, interdisciplinary, project-centered programs. |
