Kenneth M. Lorenz

Construction Management
Health Care Center
Central Pennsylvania

This is a student-generated Capstone Project e-Portfolio (CPEP) produced in conjunction with the AE Senior Thesis e-Studio.

Welcome to Ken Lorenz's AE Senior Thesis e-Portfolio

Reflection

ABET Assessment

ABET Outcomes for AE 481W/482

Outcome not able to be assessed

    (Score of 0)

Level of ability demonstrated but below acceptable

  (Score of 1)

Minimum acceptable level of ability demonstrated

   (Score of 2)

More than minimum level of ability demonstrated

   (Score of 3)
a. An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering      
X
b. An ability to analyze and interpret data      
X
c. An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs    
X
 
e. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems      
X
f. An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility      
X
g. An ability to communicate effectively      
X
h. The broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context      
X
i. An ability to engage in life-long learning      
X
j. A knowledge of contemporary issues    
X
k. An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice      
X
o. Engineering design capabilities in at least two (2) of the (3) basic curriculum areas of architectural engineering, and that design has been integrated across the breadth of the program    
X
 
p. Communication and interaction with other design professionals in the execution of building projects    
X

AE 481W/482 Reflection

AE 481W and 482 are the courses that make up the year long senior thesis.  During the fall semester, students are given technical assignments where they learn about their building in great detail.  The process includes gathering information about the client, local conditions, building systems, delivery system, schedule and budget, and more.  All construction management students attend the PACE seminar where they become familiar with industry problems.  These issues then usually develop into research topics.

 

Once the research topics have been established, students have the entire spring semester to work on their thesis.  There is only one deadline that falls in the middle of April, when the final report is due.  This allows the students the freedom to set their own goals and work at their own pace.  During this time industry professionals are contacted and relations develop to help students who have questions about their research.  This year long project is challenging, yet very rewarding once completed.  I know that this real life experience will lead to an easier transition into the construction industry.

 

CPEP and Discussion Board Reflection

With very little experience in website design the CPEP site was easy to work with. All fifth year students are given a number of templates to choose from and can personalize them how ever they wish. I was unable to figure out how to change some colors and separate the website from the rest. However, I am pleased with how the website turned out. It would be useful if more sessions were available for students who are not familiar with the program.

The discussion board is a very useful tool and can be a very helpful way to contact industry professionals. I did not utilize the discussion board like other students but instead developed my own set of contacts through email and phone calls.

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This Page was last updated on May 6, 2007 , By Student Name and is hosted by the AE Department ©2005