Why aren't Student Solution Manuals published for Engineering Textbooks?

In summary, it seems that there is a lack of a clear reason why engineering textbooks do not have student solution manuals. Presumably, this decision was made for financial reasons, as the sale of such materials would not bring in a significant amount of revenue. However, this could be changing as more and more students opt to purchase these type of materials to supplement their own learning.
  • #1
norman_neo
3
0
I do not understand why engineering curriculum begins with calculus, physics, and chemistry textbooks that have published student solution manuals and then switches to engineering textbooks that do not have student solution manuals.

First and second year engineering students learn how to use a student solution manual as a supplemental reference and study-aid to enhance learning and develop a thorough understanding of the material.

But, engineering textbooks do not have student solution manuals! Why?
 
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  • #2
norman_neo said:
I do not understand why engineering curriculum begins with calculus, physics, and chemistry textbooks that have published student solution manuals and then switches to engineering textbooks that do not have student solution manuals.

First and second year engineering students learn how to use a student solution manual as a supplemental reference and study-aid to enhance learning and develop a thorough understanding of the material.

But, engineering textbooks do not have student solution manuals! Why?

What's a Student Solution Manual? Hopefully it is different from an Instructor Solution Manual, which is only meant to be used by instructors.

Do you mean like having the odd numbered question solutions in the back of the book?
 
  • #3
norman_neo said:
I do not understand why engineering curriculum begins with calculus, physics, and chemistry textbooks that have published student solution manuals and then switches to engineering textbooks that do not have student solution manuals.

First and second year engineering students learn how to use a student solution manual as a supplemental reference and study-aid to enhance learning and develop a thorough understanding of the material.

But, engineering textbooks do not have student solution manuals! Why?

Some do have them.

CS
 
  • #4
berkeman said:
What's a Student Solution Manual? Hopefully it is different from an Instructor Solution Manual, which is only meant to be used by instructors.

Do you mean like having the odd numbered question solutions in the back of the book?

A SSM gives the full worked out, step by step solution to typically the odd numbered problems.

Similar to the answers in the back of the book except they work it out for the student.

CS
 
  • #5
What just does not seem to make any sense is why publishers have authorized and allowed Student Solution Manuals for Freshman and Sophomore engineering curriculum (i.e. Calculus, Physics, and Chemistry textbooks), but they do not release these manuals for upper level (300+) engineering courses.

stewartcs said:
Some do have them.

CS

--- Some meaning in extremely rare cases.

It seems like publishers could make a lot of money buy selling Student Solution Manuals for the more advanced engineering courses!
 
  • #6
Most engineering textbooks are designed as reference material for engineers, not specifically for students. Where as maths, physics and chemistry books are almost exclusively learning tools (you also get reference material for them that won't have solutions).

You will find engineering books that are aimed to teach will have a solution manual. Ones designed as reference material won't.
 
  • #7
norman_neo said:
It seems like publishers could make a lot of money buy selling Student Solution Manuals for the more advanced engineering courses!

I think the publishers, in the case of most texts have determined otherwise; there is no profit margin, or you would have them.

Good golly, isn't Economic$ 301 included in an engineering curricula? ...Just kidding.
 

1. Why are there no Student Solution Manuals for Engineering Textbooks?

There are a few reasons for this. One possible reason is that the solutions to engineering problems are often complex and require a deep understanding of the material. As such, providing a solution manual may lead to students simply copying answers without fully grasping the concepts. Additionally, the solutions may not always be straightforward and may vary depending on the approach used. Another reason is that many engineering textbooks cover a wide range of topics and it may not be feasible for publishers to create a comprehensive solution manual for every topic covered.

2. Can't solution manuals be helpful for students to check their work?

While solution manuals may seem like a helpful tool for students to check their work, they can often do more harm than good. Relying on solution manuals can hinder a student's ability to think critically and solve problems on their own. It is important for students to develop their problem-solving skills and not simply rely on solutions provided by a manual.

3. Are there any alternatives to solution manuals for engineering textbooks?

Yes, there are alternative resources that can be helpful for students in understanding and solving engineering problems. Many textbooks come with practice problems and answers in the back of the book, which can serve as a helpful tool for students. Additionally, seeking help from professors, teaching assistants, or online resources can also aid in understanding and solving problems.

4. Are solution manuals available for other fields of study?

Solution manuals are not just limited to engineering textbooks. They are also available for other fields of study such as math, physics, and chemistry. However, the purpose and use of solution manuals may differ depending on the subject and the level of complexity of the problems.

5. Can students find unofficial solution manuals online?

Yes, there are often unofficial solution manuals available online. However, it is important for students to use these resources with caution. These solution manuals may not be accurate or may only provide answers without explanations, which can hinder a student's learning. It is always best to use official resources and seek help from instructors whenever possible.

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