The incorporation of ocean science applications into the electrical, electronic, computer science, and mechanical design programs provides the students with a real-world application for their course of studies and broadens their career opportunities. Further, giving students the hands-on applications first then following up with the technical concepts serves as a powerful motivator of student learning. The electrical technology program at the author's institution (California) is one example of how this can work. Students can enroll in a robotics applications class without prerequisites and as a result develop an immediate understanding of the operational systems. From there they demand additional knowledge on the inner workings of the systems providing self-motivation for many of the theoretical classes. The goal for the students is to compete in the annual International ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) Competition and put their skills into practice. The step to include ocean sciences into an existing technical program is a much smaller hurdle than trying to teach electrical or programming concepts to marine sciences students. The end result is an enhanced program, increased student retention, and a worldwide industry for student careers. The departmental implementation of this philosophy at the author's institution as well as student success and hiring's will be discussed.
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