Taught by: Dr. John D. Mertens, Associate Professor of Engineering

Once a week the class will investigate a topic or technique studied in the seminar using a hands-on experience. Laboratories will examine how our understanding of reality is affected by the limits of our senses, by our language and vocabulary, and by our access to technology (models and tools). The laboratory will also be used to apply problem-solving techniques and philosophies to simple design problems. This will include the use of computer aided design, and some prototype manufacturing. Students will get their hands dirty at times, but no previous experience of any kind is necessary to be a full participant. It is the hope of the instructor that this seminar will attract serious students with a wide variety of backgrounds and interest.