Simple observation

I have made a lot of comparisons between the education, teaching styles, and environments that exist at Michigan Tech and at the University of Michigan. However, I had a realization today that explains much of my observations and really gets at the heart of the matter.

First, a few definitions. An engineer (from my perspective) is someone who applies science and scientific principles to a problem in an attempt to generate a solution. The motivation varies but the end result is the solution to a practical problem.

A scientist (again from my perspective) is someone who again uses science and scientific principles to further understand the physical world. Again, the motivation varies but the end result in this case is the advancement of knowledge, not necessarily a solution to a practical problem.

Ignoring the fact that most engineers have a little scientist in them and some scientists have a little engineer in their blood, my observation is this:

Michigan Tech is aimed at creating engineers. The University of Michigan is aimed at creating scientists.

Maybe that's why when Tech plays U of M in hockey, the taunt "Michigan engineers drive trains, Choo Choo!" rings out....