Thesis Page

Simmons College
School of Management

Boston, Ma

Kevin Wigton - Structural Option

Technical Assignments

Senior Thesis e-Studio

Thesis Course Reflections

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/882 Course Reflection

The Architectural Engineering Senior Thesis is a year long project that is unique to this undergraduate degree program at Penn State. There are few opportunities that students have during their coursework to be exposed to such a wide variety of in depth, and practical knowledge. Students have the ability to study a full scale building project while pursuing their own interests within their specific areas of study. The benefits of the thesis study extend beyond the exposure to advanced engineering topics. Through the preparation of documentation, reports, and presentation materials, students develop the ability to effectively communicate technical topics.

CPEP & Discussion Board Reflection

The senior thesis electronic portfolio is an excellent method for the submission and organization of materials throughout a year long project. Student developed websites allow for professors, professionals, and peers to track progress throughout the completion of the study. Additionally, the content remains accessible for friends, family, and future students to review.

The discussion board was a useful tool that was available as an aide to students. Often times when questions were posted, in addition to multiple practitioners responding with potential solutions to resolve a problem, fellow students would be able to offer some advice based on their thesis studies. Ultimately this proved to be an effective means to encourage discussion between students and professionals.

User Note

“Note: While great efforts have been taken to provide accurate and complete information on the pages of CPEP, please be aware that the information contained herewith is considered a work‐in‐progress for this thesis project. Modifications and changes related to the original building designs and construction methodologies for this senior thesis project are solely the interpretation of Kevin Wigton. Changes and discrepancies in no way imply that the original design contained errors or was flawed. Differing assumptions, code references, requirements, and methodologies have been incorporated into this thesis project; therefore, investigation results may vary from the original design.”