A practical approach to the training of engineers

Abstract

The paper describes the technique used at Davy Computing Limited for the training of drawing office personnel (draftsmen and designers) to operate a turnkey CAD system. It describes how this technique is based on Davy Computing’s experiences gained in training engineers to use computers over a number of years, and specifically on the lessons learnt in training one particular company to use the CAD system.

The paper describes the training scheme inherited from the American turnkey system suppliers and the modifications made by Davy following the training exercise outlined. It emphasizes the importance of pre-installation education, understanding of the client’s work and working methods, the formulating of good training objectives with the client and the role of system manager.

Training discussed in this paper concerns that given to engineers who have little or no experience of computer systems. It is anticipated that the problems inherent in this situation will gradually disappear, since the engineers now leaving the universities and colleges will have had experience of computers and will expect to use them to aid them in their future careers.