Engineering Design Studio Hosts a Unique 55th Reunion: A Blend of Past and Present
MIT's Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) department recently celebrated a unique reunion, bringing together alumni from the Class of 1971 for a special event in the Cypress Engineering Design Studio. This wasn't just a gathering; it was a testament to the enduring impact of MIT's education and a creative way to teach and reconnect. Senior Lecturer Gim Hom orchestrated this reunion with a twist, turning it into a 'last class' for himself and his classmates.
A Reunion with a Twist
What made this reunion extraordinary was the focus on practical, hands-on learning. Hom, who is no longer teaching full-time, designed the event to be both nostalgic and educational. He selected two projects from his past courses, stripping away the theoretical aspects and keeping only the assembly process. The first project involved soldering a printed circuit board (PCB) to create a simplified electrocardiogram (ECG), allowing attendees to view their heartbeats. This activity not only refreshed their soldering skills but also provided a tangible reminder of their time at MIT.
The second project was a surface mount solder (SMT) assembly of a small USB-powered audio amplifier. This project was particularly intriguing because it showcased the evolution of technology. While SMT was not widely used during their undergraduate years, it is now the primary technology in modern electronics. Hom's choice of project not only exposed the alumni to current practices but also highlighted the importance of staying updated with technological advancements.
A Day of Learning and Nostalgia
The event was more than just a reunion; it was a day of learning and sharing. Technical instructors Anthony Pennes and Liam Ackerman, who were also celebrating their own reunions, were on hand to guide the alumni through the projects. This not only ensured a smooth experience but also provided an opportunity for the instructors to reconnect with their own educational journey.
Hom's passion for teaching and his desire to create a meaningful experience for his classmates were evident throughout the day. He explained, "As a lecturer, I use real-world problems and solutions to teach concepts in analog and digital design. For the reunion activity, I drew upon two existing labs from my courses and stripped out the theory material, leaving only the assembly for the reunion activity." This approach not only made the event engaging but also emphasized the practical application of knowledge.
A Lasting Impact
The impact of this reunion extended beyond the day itself. The alumni left with not just a working board but also a renewed sense of connection to MIT and its values. For Hom, the event was a way to give back and create a lasting impact. "It was wonderful to see alumni leave with a working board with big smiles on their faces," he said. This sentiment underscores the power of such initiatives in fostering a sense of community and continuity.
In conclusion, the Engineering Design Studio's 55th reunion was a brilliant example of how education can be both nostalgic and forward-thinking. It brought together the past and present, creating a memorable experience for the alumni and offering a unique learning opportunity. This event not only highlighted the importance of technical skills but also emphasized the value of lifelong learning and the power of community in education.
