I did offer courses recently, in-house, for graduate engineers, on one project (a big project with +100 structural engineers.)
It became a great forum for the graduate engineers. I used this to develop a course, over time it settled into approximating, estimating, judging, communicating. We looked at loads and their types, reasonable versus accuracy. I invite the graduates to propose topics of interests. I had about six to eight grads on a weekly basis over eight weeks. They became comfortable with each other and networked well.
The biggest subject I tackle is how to prepare calculations. This appears to be the biggest question mark. From the days of slide rules to the diodes, we have truly lost the plot!
I believe capturing graduates within the working environment is very important, it is the one place they are vulnerable, conscious and inquisitive. When they are alongside similar colleagues on the same project, they talk and compete positively. This appraises highly in their annual review.
The graduates retain the matter very well and say it was a source of inspiration.
At college, they are dreaming, unaware and apathetic. When they meet other engineers they do not know, they do not talk or network. I am looking to teach within the college environment, to explore the differences.
Are you thinking training within the corporate arena or colleges?
I like SlideRuleEra's ideas very much. Great stuff again! Had to try that myself.
Robert Mote