|
Universities are known for constantly evaluating
facilities and repurposing them as required to continue to meet the
needs of students. Changes can range from new carpet or a new coat
of paint to television and computer projection systems, teleconferencing
capabilities, wireless and wired connections, and audio amplification
for the hearing impaired. One of the most noticeable changes in the
College of Engineering occurred in 2000 when the Cushing Hall auditorium
was “remodeled.” Since the building’s dedication
in 1932, the auditorium had served student needs as a lecture hall
and, at times, a movie theater. It was a place where students gathered
to learn and experience University life. The evolution of the 4,000-sq.-ft.
facility from auditorium to Engineering Learning Center was a reflection
of the direction of the engineering program, which was becoming more
team-focused and multidisciplinary in nature. In the learning center
students at all levels, from first year to senior year, have hands-on
opportunities to work on real-world problems. It is a unique blend
of computer cluster, library, and laboratory, and it has become a vital
tool for exploration and experimentation.
To see how students and classes use the learning center, visit the center’s
live Web cam
at www.nd.edu/~englearn/webcam. |
|
|