DTeC - A technology-based freshman design course sequence

This paper describes a new integrated course sequence for freshman engineering students: Design, Technology and Communication I and II (DTeC). Design projects documented with log books and written reports, along with oral presentations serve as the integrating element in the sequence. In DTeC-I the students learn to use e-mail, word processing, spread sheet, and solid modeling computer graphics application software as well as an introduction to FORTRAN programming. Design projects include a paper structure, digital logic, and aids for the handicapped in a local sheltered workshop. In DTeC-II multimedia software and peripheral hardware (scanners, sound cards) are introduced and used in a multimedia design project: creation of interactive tutorial programs for 4th grade elementary school students, describing the operation of common technological devices. Development of DTeC-III, a mechatronics design lab in the sophomore year using ''C'' programming of a microcontroller, is presently in progress.