Mechanics of materials subjects in the engineering curricula obviously involve both mechanics and materials concepts, but many such subjects have become overly concentrated on mechanics at the expense of materials. A stronger linkage between the two disciplines could improve both efficiency and student learning. Some examples are provided to illustrate how a better balance might be restored; the examples are based on a recent textbook and subject developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Student evaluations have shown this approach to be well received, although there is room for improvement.
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