Introduction to Technical Literature by Writing Review Papers

1. Introduction to Technical Literatureby Writing Review Papers Dan Cordon Steven Beyerlein

2. Technical Elective coursesfeature specialized knowledge Design is a central functionin engineering practice Research efforts often superficial in design projects Tech. Writing courses stress documenting ideas for othersbut lack disciplinary focus Class ContextME 433 Combustion Engine Systems

3. Research Gap/credibility in current knowledge Review what others know and current theory Formulate research question/hypothesis Design a research project (Research Proposal) …… Submit for publication Integrate feedback in to re-write Inter-related Methodologies Design • Problem Definition Client need Needs analysis Information gathering Problem clarification Create Design Specs • Conceptual Design • Preliminary Design • Detailed Design • Finalized Design

4. Expand information source beyond textbook Students experience locating and reading technical literature used by experts in field Strengthen understanding of research process Practice writing an archival publication Goal of Literature Review Assignments

5. Course Implementation • Class #1 – Literature review paper introduced in syllabus as semester deliverable • Class #17 – Rationale for assignment discussed. Sample topics given. • Class #19 – HW question to identify topic area • Interest in area, personal background/knowledge, motivating research questions, and preliminary reference list • Class #23 – 5 minute Instructor/Student meetings to approve topic and scope

6. Course Implementation • Class #25 – HW question to refocus topic, identify five relevant references, and ask for assistance in acquiring resources • Class #29 – HW question requesting one page of detailed notes for each of five references • Class #30 – Suggested outline for literature review paper and Q/A about SAE template • Class #32 – First submission of 4 page paper • Class #35 – Review form returned to authors • Class #40 – Final submission of 4 page paper

7. Student Work – Topic Area Selection • Water injection • Emissions • Performance • Hardware • Modeling • Thermal Management • Catalytic converters • Thermostat

8. Student Work – Focused Topic • Thermal Management • Transient effects of engine temperature on efficiency and emissions

9. Student Work – Abstract • Abstract from Jeremy B. Paper

10. Student Work – Final Manuscript • Page 2 of Jeremy B.’s Paper

11. Student Feedback Likes • More depth on specific topics of interest not covered in class • Richness of adopting a research mindset • Opportunity for self-directed learning • Methodology supports higher quality work in capstone design projects Dislikes • Much more time-intensive than usual homework assignment • Special effort required to physically obtain supporting resources • Demands depth over breadth of coverage • Technical literature less readable than textbooks

12. Instructor Insights • Intervene @ critical points effective to boost morale and elevate critical thinking • Design teachable moments distributed throughout course rather than concentrated in 2-3 classes • Separate assessment & evaluation of student work • Distribute scoring rubric at front end • Ask for student feedback throughout class, share results, and respond to good ideas • Use intermediate deadlines emphasis key process elements and to improve final work products