Academic Explorations - Principles of Engineering Design [UC-Santa Cruz] {Commuter} (Session 2)

Humanity’s unending quest to find the most efficient and cost-effective means to make life better has created engineering marvels—from the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, to the world’s fastest commercial train, the Shanghai Maglev. In this course, you and your classmates will work primarily in teams to solve real-world and simulated engineering problems. You’ll use mathematical knowledge, scientific thinking, and engineering design skills while analyzing how composite materials are used to make modern vehicles lighter and stronger; how innovations in energy technology make electric vehicles more efficient and viable; and how bridges are made to withstand extreme stress and wind pressure. You’ll design, construct, and test your own working models and prototypes of amphibious vehicles, solar-powered cars, bridges, or skyscrapers. As part of the engineering design process, you’ll weigh economic and ethical considerations along with technological ones and submit written technical reports, and leave the class with a broader view of the field of engineering and the day-to-day work of engineers.