Development of an optical electronics curriculum for electrical and electronic engineers

This paper describes the present status and the ongoing development of a curriculum for providing a broad, but substantive introduction to optical electronics for senior undergraduate Electrical and Electronic Engineering students. An outline of the current course structure is presented, along with the rationale for the topics included and the order in which they are taught. The methods of course delivery are evaluated and their effectiveness is discussed along with techniques for maintaining student attention and interest. Other teaching innovations, aimed at encouraging postgraduate studies in optoelectronics/photonics, include presenting topics from the optoelectronics research within the Department and offering a broad selection of final year undergraduate projects in optical electronics and photonics. To promote interest in pursuing optical electronics and photonics as a career an optical engineering professional is invited to present a guest lecture during the course. The evolution of a teaching portfolio and self-assessment, in addition to student criticism and evaluation are described. Future directions for this course are outlined, in particular the development of class-based demonstrations to enhance student learning and material comprehension.