Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Engineers and Systematic Thinking

Engineering plays one of the most significant roles in globalization and human civilization. It is not exaggerated to say that the world today cannot function at all without engineers. Quite a large number of people still think engineers are just those specialists who build big tunnels, bridges and cars. However as we moved into 21st century which is full of information and new technology, the aspects of engineers are also changing extensively.

Today systematical and critical thinking and engineers are related very closely and it is the major objective in engineering training. This skill is not possibly to be mastered within days or months, while takes years, even half of the person’s life. University is the critical period in helping engineers to develop this essential skill. From fundamental knowledge to higher levels, the engineering course helps students to walk along the right track. With the guidance of professors, teachers and helps from friends, young engineers are able to build up this skill gradually. The syllabus is reviewed every year to follow up the fast changing economy. Professional computing languages like C++ and Java are compulsory modules in engineering course today to make sure engineers are able to organize information precisely and efficiently. Students are no longer asked to solve questions blindly. Instead, young engineers are going to look at the problems in various aspects and analyze them carefully and thoroughly. They are more focused on the way of detecting and solving problems other than solutions only.

A successful engineer should not only know how to solve problems but also communicate and cooperate with others. These soft skills are very important when they work in the industry. A well rounded engineer generally can produce much better ideas and solutions than those who works alone. As a future engineer, I realize it is critical to learn to listen to others suggestions and ideas as it will allow me to come out great solutions. This is what the project work meant to be. It is about good teamwork.

However, all the above are outside factors. The deciding factor is taking action. A dream will always be dream if you don’t start doing anything, so engineers must be determined also. I believe that our good education system will make our engineers grow stronger and face all the future challenges calmly.

4 comments:

  1. i agree that engineering courses and learning of programming language can help us analyze problem.
    However, i think you need to elaborate on the last paragraph about taking actions.

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  2. I think your post is really good. You covered most aspects of being an engineer.
    However, your last paragraph is a little vague. You can probably gives examples on how we can take action. Examples could be on how we use these skills we have acquired outside the classroom.

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  3. I like the articulation at the third paragraph, was a pleasant transition.

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  4. I really like the idea of getting training in university. Since most of us could come up with the thought like communication, creation or coorperation, the way to get training seems to be quite fresh.

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