The Impact of Engineering Technology Programs on Engineering and Engineering Education

Over recent decades, there has been an enormous expansion in the amount and complexity of scientific and engineering knowledge. Space exploration was climaxed by landing on the moon; solid state electronics has had significant impact in computers, controls, and a myriad of other devices; and nuclear fission is being used for the generation of significant quantities of electrical power. Besides learning about these expanded areas of knowledge, the engineering graduate must know the timeless basics as always. Also, it has become apparent that the public, with the increased complexity of our society, is asking that engineering solutions be related to society goals.     

Continuing Engineering Education and the IEEE

Considering continuing education in its broadest sense, the IEEE has provided a wide variety of learning experiences since its founding in 1884. Indeed, the type and number of offerings has become so diffuse as to cause a "masking" effect to develop conceming its educational role over the years. While continuing to provide a plethora of educational material, the IEEE in recent years has attempted to focus on specific tutorial material directed at its individual member audience as well as its geographic units, utilizing the most effective media at its disposal. The programs currently underway are described and some thoughts on the directions the Institute might go in the future are discussed.