University of Waterloo

September 6, 2002

Statement from the Dean, Faculty of Engineering on the use of C sharp

The previously posted fact sheet unfortunately contains inaccurate information on the use of C sharp in an electrical and computer engineering course. It has now been removed.

Here are the facts. First the use of C sharp is under discussion in the Curriculum Committee in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering for the redesign of a course for September 2003. In determining any curriculum initiative the Department and the Faculty of Engineering continue to apply the following principles where external support is available:

Provide the best educational experience for our students, exposing them to the best available methodologies;
Experiment with learning tools [eg. Text books, software, equipment] from our own sources or from other academic institutions and commercial entities, including proprietary sources;
Vest responsibility for primary decisions on curriculum matters with academic colleagues in academic units [i.e. UW instructors and Departmental/Faculty curriculum committees];
Ensure that curriculum decisions are overseen by the appropriate Faculty Councils, and broad policy matters by Senate or its appropriate committees/councils;
Ensure that external financial or in-kind support does not inappropriately influence curriculum development.

In addition, the curriculum of the Faculty of Engineering must meet the curriculum control requirements of the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board.

When the redesign of this course is completed and approved the instructors will ensure that the students are acquainted with a variety of languages so that they can make thoughtful choices as to which one is most appropriate for particular projects.

The Faculty of Engineering attaches great deal of importance on maintaining the academic integrity of its programs which are recognized to be world class. This integrity was never compromised and will not be compromised in the future.

Sincerely yours,

Sujeet Chaudhuri
Dean, Faculty of Engineering
University of Waterloo

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