Mechanics in the Modern World is a course for first-year (freshman and transfer students) in the Engineering Mechanics (EM) major. As a holder of the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Mechanics (BSEM) degree, I am honored to teach this course most fall semesters. In the course we review the history of the field of mechanics, with particular emphasis on the post-Newtonian era. We conduct active discussions and demonstrations about statics, dynamics, solid mechanics, and fluid mechanics. Guest faculty researchers share details about their current work in the field, and students are encouraged to connect with them if they are interested in becoming a laboratory assistant.
Additional discussions are designed to help students develop a Professional Engineering Identity, as well as an Entrepreneurial Mindset according to the KEEN framework. Students conduct readings and write reflections on relevant topics to the EM major. The course is punctuated by a large-scale design competition using the historic Southwark-Emery 3-Million Pound Testing Facility in Talbot Laboratory. Anyone who has ever competed in a balsawood bridge competition would be left speechless by what we do in this course!
