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Turning Ideas into Reality
I.
Course description
Through tours, speakers,
projects, and competitions we will explore the world of engineering using creativity,
teamwork, and problem solving. Anyone who has an interest in turning his or
her ideas into reality, regardless of background, is welcome tocome join the
fun!
II. Instructor’s
educational preparation and current employment
- 8 engineering internships
during college
- B.S. & M.S. in Electrical
Engineering from the University of MissouriColumbia
- Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering
from the University of South Florida at Tampa
- 3 years working for
Motorola as an Engineer
- 6 year directing the
MOVES (Motivational Outreach for Visions of Engineering and Science) 501(c)3
nonprofit youth outreach program (with 50 plus interactive math, science and
engineering workshops per year)
- Currently Adjunct Faculty
at the University of Texas at Austin College of Engineering (Department of
Electrical and Computer Engineering)
- Also Currently Youth
Minister for the 501(c)3 nonprofit Real Life Communications using dance, drama,
music and speaking at school assemblies to bring about positive change in
young people
Ronald E. Bell II, Ph.D.
- Department of Electrical
and Computer Engineering
- College of Engineering
- rbell@mail.utexas.edu
- 5122323340
- Elect & Computer
Engr
- Campus Mail Code: C0803
- University of Texas
- Austin, TX 78712
III. Rationale
for inclusion in a program for gifted students
- Preparing students for
a career in engineering
- There is a demand from
the students
- Allow them to combine
and apply advanced mathematics and science skills in the context of teamwork,
problem solving and creativity with engineering
IV. Major topics
covered
Major:
- Electrical, Civil, Industrial,
Chemical and Mechanical Engineering
- Teamwork, Creativity
and Problem Solving
- Design, Building and
Testing
Minor:
- Tessellations
- Architecture
- Golden
ratio
V. Prerequisite
knowledge
- Minimum: Algebra I, 1
year of High School Science
- Preferred: 2 years of
High School Math and Science
- Best: Algebra I &
II, Trigonometry, Geometry, Physics
VI. Learning objectives
- Increase knowledge of
Engineering
- Improve teamwork, problem
solving and creativity skills
- Awareness of how the
math and science learned in the classroom applies to the world
- Learn the Design, Building
and Testing process of engineering
VII. Primary source
material
Self-written book “PreEngineering”
and “Structures”
VIII. Supplementary
source material
- Videos
- Engineering Company Tours
- Guest Engineering Speakers