Learning outside of the classroom

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the motivations and methods for continued learning among engineers after graduation. Participants explore various sources and types of materials that aid in self-directed learning and professional development, touching on both theoretical and practical aspects of engineering literature.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express curiosity about how engineers maintain motivation for learning after graduation, questioning the necessity of external pressure to engage with textbooks.
  • One participant notes that limitations encountered in the workplace often drive the need for professional development, which can take the form of self-study or additional coursework.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of personal motivation, stating that the desire to perform well in their job compels them to read reference books.
  • Questions arise regarding the types of reference materials engineers typically consult, with some suggesting that these are often not theory-heavy but rather practical specifications or manuals.
  • Responses indicate that while some reference books may provide theoretical insights, others are purely catalog-like and lack in-depth explanations.
  • Specific examples of reference materials being read by participants are shared, highlighting that the choice of reading often depends on immediate needs or new developments in the field.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that self-motivation is key to continued learning, but there are varying opinions on the types of materials that are most beneficial and the extent to which theory is included in reference books.

Contextual Notes

Some discussions reflect uncertainty about the balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application in engineering literature, as well as the varying definitions of what constitutes effective learning resources.

bigaggie
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So I have this question, and while I may not be in a position to apply it now, it is something I'm curious about. But for you guys who've already graduated and are engineers and have been for some time, how do you motivate yourself to keep learning? What sources do you utilize for these purposes? I just have a hard time visualizing anyone reading a textbook without someone forcing them to.
 
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You find your limitations when you work in a job. You then decide to professionally develop yourself; the methods can generally be self-directed study, or attending more coursework.
 
bigaggie said:
So I have this question, and while I may not be in a position to apply it now, it is something I'm curious about. But for you guys who've already graduated and are engineers and have been for some time, how do you motivate yourself to keep learning? What sources do you utilize for these purposes? I just have a hard time visualizing anyone reading a textbook without someone forcing them to.

I generally find that I'm the one forcing me to read!

Once you start working, and assuming you want to actually do a good job, you'll find that you must read books (typically reference books) to do your job. You are not going to remember every formula you learned so you'll need a reference at the least for that.

As far as learning new material...it goes back to you have the desire.

CS
 
What kind of reference books would you be reading as engineers? They're not like theory-laden textbooks of engineering courses but more of dry engineering catalog specifications or operating manual types right?
 
Defennnder said:
What kind of reference books would you be reading as engineers? They're not like theory-laden textbooks of engineering courses but more of dry engineering catalog specifications or operating manual types right?

Yes and no. A lot handbooks offer a brief theoretical overview of what the formulas actually mean, or derive a simple case. Sometimes they do offer a bit more of the theory, it just depends on the book and if the subuject warrants more of an explanation.

Catalogs are just that...catalogs.

I've never seen an operating manual with any kind of theory in it.

CS
 
Right now I'm reading Palmgren's Ball and Roller Bearing Engineering. Last week it was the Bodine Small Motor, Gearmotor, and Control Handbook. For me, it almost always depends on what I need to know at that point in time or what's new that I might have some use for.
 

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