A DESIGN COURSE IN CHINA FOR US AND CHINESE STUDENTS INVOLVING AN AMERICAN CORPORATION

摘要

Globalization of the engineering enterprise has not only impacted its practice but also the education of its practitioners in ways previously unimagined. Virtually every engineering program in the country has implemented new activities and programmatic changes to assist graduates develop the skills, knowledge and experience to function effectively in a world of diverse culture, language and aspirations. Examples include a variety of variable duration international study, design, research and exchange programs as well as curriculum revisions that provide greater cultural, language and international practice exposure. In 2007 North Carolina State University conducted a Study Abroad program with Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China. Its purpose was to begin the development of a relationship to promote student exchange and faculty interaction. The plan for this six-week program was to have NCSU students (1) enroll in six hours of credit that would be taught by accompanying faculty and (2) engage in tours, cultural events, industry visits and social activities with Chinese students for cultural enrichment. The College of Engineering participated by offering an introductory course in mechanics, MAE 206 Statics. The schedule coincided with the first summer session on the NCSU campus.