Reflection

The AE Senior Thesis Project was a very valuable and worthwhile year-long exercise. Although very challenging at times, it provided the necessary experience that will be beneficial in a future career. The ability to design the lighting and complete detailed electrical analyses, provided the exposure to real world engineering practice. Although the course seemed to have a lack of structure at times, I feel that it was a good source of preparation for the future. Not only was it a good academic experience, but it also tested and reinforced the importance of time management. Senior thesis helped to enhance the necessary skills of communication, ethics, and professionalism.

I feel that using the CPEP website was a great way to communicate and display progress of the senior thesis project. It was an easy way to clearly display the semester's work. The online postings made it easy for faculty, professionals, and even family members to view the semester's accomplishments. However, I feel that the online technology was not utilized as much as it could have been. In addition, updating the website was often a last minute priority, and changes to the project were usually not posted right away.

The discussion board was a very beneficial feature when completing my senior thesis. It was nice to receive answers to questions from professionals who deal with such issues on a regular basis. Learning how to handle various problems was not only helpful for this project, but it also provides valuable information in a future career.

 

ABET OUTCOMES
FOR AE 481W / 482

Outcome not able to be assesed


(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, compenent, 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 (2) of the three (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
 
Senior Thesis Main Page Penn State Architectural Engineering AE Computer Labs Contact Christine: cmc5004@psu.edu
This page was last updated on April 21, 2009, by Christine Clowes and is hosted by the AE Department © 2009
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 Christine Clowes. 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.