Physics in Engineering Education

THE major points in the article by E. L. Woodside (“Physics Curriculum for Engineers”, Physics Today, November 1954, p. 4) are well made. First, given the premise that a fundamental knowledge of physical laws is desirable for engineering students, specialists do tend to emphasize the importance of their subject matter domain. Second, there is a need and a value in learning to think formally. Third, time is an important consideration in the development of the best curriculum possible for engineers. The issue is of real significance to the welfare of the nation and I would like to expand some of the points and take issue with another.