MISSION CREEP IN ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION?

摘要

At this juncture in the development of engineering technology education, it is critical not to lose sight of the mission of engineering technology. Two specific challenges to the engineering technology traditional mission are the issues of 'basic faculty credentials' and changing expectations for 'creative activities'. These two challenges can be delineated by the following questions: Will a doctorate degree be necessary for engineering technology faculty in the future for promotion and tenure in the university environment? Will applied research or pedagogical research be 'good enough'? This paper addresses these two issues by analyzing a research study of current engineering technology faculty hiring practices. Data are presented showing the change in faculty credentials and faculty hiring practices over the last two years. Ultimately, discussion within the engineering technology community must occur as engineering technology education continues to evolve and move into the future.