Welcome to Chad's AE Senior Thesis e-Portfolio
Thesis Reflection
Prior to the start of my fifth year in Architectural Engineering, I cringed when hearing thesis mentioned. Thesis is a year long Architectural Engineering class. The first semester is AE 481 and the second semester is AE 482. Each student is required to choose a building that fulfill certain requirements. I was fortunate enough to have an internship with Gilbane Building Company the summer before my fifth year, and was able to chose the project I worked on, Penn State Recreation Hall Wrestling and Student Fitness Center, as my thesis building.
During AE 481 I was required to complete various technical assignments. These assignments required investigation into the building systems, owners, site location, schedule and costs for the project. Upon completion of these investigations I developed a thesis proposal. Although this class involved a large amount of work, it was very beneficial as it helped me to truly understand the methods and materials used for the construction of the building.
Using the proposal I had developed during the first semester work, I began my research for AE 482. I began research into my three analysis', retrieving information from many sources ranging from industry professionals to text books. The most difficult aspect of this portion of thesis was managing my time. During this semester of work there is only one deadline, final thesis presentations, which required self motivation to complete my work early. Upon completion of my analysis' I was able to form my final thesis report and thesis presentation.
I had a large advantage during thesis, as I was able to continue my internship throughout the year. This allowed me to gain more insight into the project, and witness the challenges encountered on the job. This enhanced my knowledge of the project and understanding of my thesis topics.
CPEP/Discussion Board Reflection
The use of CPEP allowed all students to place their work on a website and allowed industry professionals, faculty and other students to review the student's work. Although I often became disgusted with the amount of housekeeping required for the website, it was very beneficial. I was able to invite industry professionals to review my work and provide feedback. I was also able to review past thesis' to understand the assignments and what was expected by the faculty.
The Discussion Board allowed students to interact with industry professionals. Industry professionals provided information for students and answered questions regarding thesis topics. Although I did not use the discussion board to obtain information for my thesis, I was able to review emails from industry professionals regarding different systems and methods used on various types of projects. This allowed me to expand my knowledge of many types of construction throughout the world.
| 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 |
5 |
5 |
X |
5 |
|
b. An ability to analyze and interpret data |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
| c. An ability to design a system, component, or process
to meet desired needs |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
|
e. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering
problems |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
| f. An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
|
g. An ability to communicate effectively |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
| h. The broad education necessary to understand the
impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
|
i. An ability to engage in life-long
learning |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
| j. A knowledge of contemporary issues |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
|
k. An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern
engineering tools necessary for engineering practice |
5 |
5 |
5 |
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 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |
| p. Communication and interaction with other design
professionals in the execution of building projects |
5 |
5 |
5 |
X |