KATIE RITTER
STRUCTURAL OPTION
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Reflection
Senior Thesis Reflection
Thesis has been the ultimate project that has effectively "tied it all together." Although it has been grueling, I am thankful that we have had the opportunity to analyze and design solutions for an actual building through our senior thesis. I think this is the only way to learn how to apply everything that we have learned throughout the past five years of schooling. I have learned a tremendous amount about making design assumptions based on engineering logic and how to optimize a design without meticulously designing every element down to the half inch! This kind of practical knowledge is very valuable and will be helpful in saving time as a future practicing professional. In general, I think the overall experience has proven very beneficial in preparing me to enter the workforce.
CPEP Reflection
The CPEP webpage process for posting thesis progress and reports has been extremely effective. It relieves everyone of the need to rely solely on paper copies of the reports. This way, all reports may be viewed online or even printed. I also enjoyed learning how to design and maintain a webpage. The format is very organized and helpful in finding and/or sharing this year-long endeavor with those interested.
The CPEP discussion board is just one of the many resources that the AE Department at Penn State provides its students to aid in their success. Many times, the practical aspects of design can be lost or hidden within the academic world. The design professionals who have selflessly volunteered their time and expertise to guide students in their theses has proven invaluable. Even just by reading through the responses of other students questions, a wealth of information can be learned.
ABET Outcome Survey
Important Note: These outcomes reflect a personal (student) assessment of the course, not the instructor's assessment.
ABET Outcomes for AE 481W/482 |
Outcome not able to be assessed |
Level of ability demonstrated but below acceptable |
Minimum acceptable level of ability demonstrated |
More than minimum level of ability demonstrated |
(Score of 0) |
(Score of 1) |
(Score of 2) |
(Score of 3) |
a. An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering |
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3 |
b. An ability to analyze and interpret data |
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3 |
c. An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs |
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3 |
e. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems |
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3 |
f. An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility |
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2 |
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g. An ability to communicate effectively |
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3 |
h. The broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context |
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3 |
i. An ability to engage in life-long learning |
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3 |
j. A knowledge of contemporary issues |
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2 |
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k. An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice |
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3 |
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 |
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3 |
p. Communication and interaction with other design professionals in the execution of building projects |
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3 |