Computer techniques are increasingly important in undergraduate engineering education. Although there are clusters of computers available throughout campus, many of the classes in Biomedical Engineering require extensive computational work, and the faculty strongly recommends that each student own a computer. Many students may want suggestions on specific hardware that can be purchased now and that will meet the needs of the next four years. To help with that selection, the BMEN faculty offers the following suggestions:
Buy now or later? In Biomedical Engineering we had previously recommended that students wait to purchase a computer until the start of the Sophomore year. Our engineering applications pushed computer hardware to the limits, and as capabilities were rapidly expanding and prices stabilizing, it made sense to wait as long as possible before buying a computer. However, purchasing a computer at the start of the Freshman year now makes sense — current hardware capabilities that can handle the applications are readily available and affordable. However, it's best to keep in mind that during the Freshman year, most of the computer use will be for writing papers and lab reports, communication via e-mail and the Internet, and perhaps use as a 'terminal' for programming assignments. It will certainly be used during the Freshman year.
Notebook or desktop? A notebook machine can be taken to class with you, or brought to a faculty member's office if you need help with an assignment. Also the new wireless network available in many campus locations will allow you to connect to the internet from most academic buildings, the library, the University Center, and 'common' areas of the dorms. But notebook computers, because they're so miniaturized, are more delicate, and more prone to failure and theft. If you choose a notebook system, we suggest you consider buying a service contract that extends the manufacturer's warranty. We also suggest that students who choose portables consider purchasing a full-sized keyboard and mouse to plug into their notebook for use in their dorm rooms.
Apple (MacOS) or Intel-based (Windows/Linux)? Each style has advantages. If you are already familiar with using one of them, then I'd recommend that you continue to use the system you know. If you choose the 'Win-tel' option, choose Windows 2000 or XP. If you choose the Mac, current models run Mac OSX current generation operating system, MacOS X and at least 256MB of memory is recommended. Faculty members in the department use MacOS X, Windows NT, Windows 2000 and XP systems.
Where to purchase: Both Apple and Intel-based hardware is sold by the on-campus computer showroom (504-862-8059, http://www.tom.tulane.edu). You may, of course, purchase your computer wherever you want to, and the internet may be most convenient (e.g., http://www.dell.com or http://www.apple.com/education/hed/students/). In-warranty service is available for computers purchased on-campus.
Software will be needed for use in various classes in much the same way that textbooks are specified. Because of the educational discounts available, it's generally less expensive to buy software from dealers specializing in campus sales. Nonetheless, if you purchase a computer, you should budget approximately $300 for software. It may be best to simply purchase 'office automation' software during the Freshman year — either Microsoft Office (Word and Excel, and PowerPoint) or WordPerfect Office. These titles may come pre-installed, or are much less expensive when purchased with an educational discount. To receive the discount, wait until you arrive on campus and order from the bookstore. Another option is to use a large mail order dealer — such as Mac Warehouse (and PC Warehouse) — that publishes a large and informative "Education Edition" catalog which you can request by calling them at 1-800-696-1727. Another mail order vendor is Journey Educational Marketing http://www.journeyed.com.
Insurance: College students are sometimes overly trusting, and backpacks do occasionally get snatched. You might want to ask some questions about the specific coverage against computer theft that is included in your homeowner's or renter's insurance.
1. Which is the best semester, year for your students to go abroad? (e.g. spring of sophomore, fall and/or spring of junior, fall of senior)
Probably the junior year; fall if but one semester. However, fall semester at many EU schools does not end until mid-January. This presents a problem for students trying to return in time for the start of Spring semester here. The senior thesis project (integrated with BMEN 490-491) usually begins in the spring semester of the junior year, but can be delayed until the summer or fall of the senior year. Arrangements for the senior thesis project are best made prior to leaving for JYA.
Additionally, the fall semester curriculum for juniors includes math modeling, fluid mechanics, and other courses that are adequately taught in non-BME specific curricula. This gives flexibility in choice of institutions abroad.
2. What requirements should a student complete prior to going abroad?
The student should consult with his/her advisor before leaving in order to minimize the impact of missing prerequisites of required courses.
Generally this issue is best handled on a case-by-case basis and requires developing a curricular plan outlining the balance of the undergraduate career.
3. Do you or other members of your department recommend specific institutions abroad? If so, which ones (please list institution and country)?
In general, we have no preferred institutions. A school that has no offering of technical courses is less desirable than one with offerings that can fit into our curriculum. Careful advance planning could make it possible to take only LAS courses overseas, but it is difficult to do this.
The student, along with the mentor and advisor, should choose the institution with the student's background and career goals in mind.
That said, we've had several students at Imperial College in London, and have been able to find courses that are suitable for Junior year including Anatomy and Physiology, Fluid Mechanics, etc.
4. What graduation requirements for a degree in your field can not be completed abroad?
Graduation requirements that are difficult or impossible to meet abroad are Research and Professional Practice, BMEN 490-491, and Team Design Projects, BMEN 403-404. Other BME-specific courses that are often difficult to match include BMEN303-304, Medical Science. If the student is at a university with a coordinate medical school (e.g. Strathclyde) then this is not a problem. If matching courses cannot be found, a workable plan may be to move required courses from the junior year to the senior year, emphasizing taking professional electives abroad.
5. Who is the contact person in your department for study abroad for 2003-04?
Professor David Rice, the BMEN Director of Undergraduate Studies.
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