Students and practicing engineers often have difficulties performing tasks that involve information technology (IT) because they lack a fundamental knowledge of the foundations of computer-aided engineering (CAE). This paper describes the development of a theoretical course that prepares students to learn computer tools rapidly through a better abstract understanding of important CAE characteristics. The course also prepares future engineers for tasks such as evaluation and development of new software products for professional use. Since the most important information is independent of hardware and software technologies, much of the course content is expected to remain valid throughout engineering careers. © 2004 ASCE.