Reflection

ABET Outcome Survey

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 of the three 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/482 Course Reflection
From the standpoint of a mechanical option AE student, I felt that the year-long senior thesis class was a vital instrument in both the preparation and evaluation of future practicing architectural engineers. The assignments given during the Fall Semester in AE 481W were a creative way to familiarize students with their buildings and reveal deficiencies and opportunities that helped to inspire the studies conducted during the Spring Semester. The course work for AE 482 tested a multitude of skills, of which time management, an ability to work independently, and the ability to communicate with professional and course practicioners were critical. I am certain that the relative success enjoyed by Penn State Architectural Engineers in the professional world can be greatly attributed to the rigors of the senior thesis class.

CPEP & Discussion Board Reflection
The Capstone Project Electronic Portfolio (CPEP) is an organized and efficient method for Architectural Engineering seniors to display and submit their thesis work. Having a centrally-located filing system has made it easy for both administrators and students conduct research and evaluate work that has been done by students. The provided Discussion Board proved to be an instrumental link between students and design practicioners, and also became a vital resource for thesis questions and research.

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 designs and construction methodologies for this senior thesis project are solely the interpretation of Christopher G. Conrad. 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.