Mechanical dissection bridging the gap between the theoretical and physical world

Engineering education has received criticism recently from industry, professors, and the students themselves as offering too few 'hands-on' courses and failing to link engineering theory to 'real-world' systems and equipment. Mechanical Dissection is a class that bridges the gap between 'hands-on' and 'textbook' learning. By having students dissect and analyze mechanical equipment, the class connects the students' engineering knowledge to the physical realities of the equipment. A comprehensive engineering educational program has a responsibility to prepare students by providing them with both a strong theoretical base and practical experience. The success of Mechanical Dissection is a step in the right direction towards a more balanced educational program.