Course Description
This course Introduction to Engineering Technology is designed as the beginning middle school course in technology education.
The purpose of this course is to provide a foundation of knowledge in core concepts of technology, technological materials, information gathering and apply processes associated with the technological thinker. Students will be introduced to the concepts that underlie technological systems and the influence of technological systems at home, school, and the world of work. This program focuses on transferable skills and stresses understanding necessary for engineering technology related careers in business and industry.
Course Goals:
The goals of middle school technology education helps students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that lead them to become technologically literate. The design challenges presented at the end of each module incorporate the engineering design process that encourages deeper thinking and also has students consider career options. Students should learn to successfully apply mathematics and engineering science to complete several design challenges in engineering and engineering technology; as demonstrated by using the engineering design process to complete the challenge projects.
Target Audience
Students in the middle-level grades explore the scope of technology and related careers. However, it will work as an introduction to engineering technology for any level (HS).
Course Requirements
This is an introductory course, built around the ITEA Standards for Technological Literacy 6-8. These standards were developed by the International Technology Education Association; and thus is ideal for 6th - 8th grade students.
Course Includes
- Over 10 hours of video content
- 33 video lessons
- 8 review videos
- 26 practice worksheets (answers provided in resources)
- 8 short quizzes
- 8 STEM Challenges
- Animation Resource links
- Web resources
Course Topics
Introduction: What is STEM?
Module 1: What is Technology?
History of Technology
Seven Resources of Technology & Systems
Marshmallow/Spaghetti Challenge
Unit 1 Review
Module 2: Introduction to Engineering Design
Engineering Design a Tin Foil Boat
Elements & Principles of Design
Introduction to Sketching
Isometric, Perspective, Multi-view Drawings
Design a Balloon Car
Module 2 Review
Module 3: Manufacturing Processes
Types of Manufacturing
Properties of Materials
Catapult Challenge
Module 3 Manufacturing & Materials Review
Module 4: Construction
The Structure of Bridges
Bridge Design Challenge
Module 4 Review
Module 5: Introduction to Biotechnology, Medical & Agricultural Technology
Design a Water Filter Challenge
Module 5 Review
Module 6: Transportation Systems
Design a Canister Rocket Challenge
Module 6 Review
Module 7: Energy & Power PPT
Design a Wind Turbine Challenge
Module 7 Review
Module 8: Communication Technology
Design a Travel Brochure
Module 8 Review