Effective research experience of electrical engineering technology students

This paper describes a project in which undergraduate engineering technology students, engineering graduate students and a technical high school minority student experienced the research environment and worked together towards the success of a project in power electronics. Various aspects of the student research experience including teamwork, responsibility distribution, discussions, co-ordination and strategies for the development of the project are outlined. Specific initiatives undertaken at Wayne State University (USA) to increase undergraduate research are mentioned. Impact of the project and its influence on research and education and future challenges are highlighted.