What is Engineering?
If
you are creative and like to design, then you have an interest in
engineering. If you
play video games, like to draw, use technology, like math and
science, then you are on your way to becoming a future engineer.
An engineer is essentially a designer.
Engineering is defined as “the application of scientific and
mathematical principles to practical ends such as design,
manufacture, and operation of efficient and economical structures,
machines processes, and systems.”
Student can expect to study engineering as an integrated
creative STEM curriculum.
STEM is an applied integrated approach using Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics as tools to create product,
whether it’s a house, car, cell phone or robot.
Engineering by itself is the embodiment of STEM.
It is the practical application of physics in the real world.
Remember Wood Shop, Metal Shop, Electronics, and Coding? Now all in one, infused with Robotics – The
New Cool!
Engineering is an exciting field for both girls and boys that creates new innovations every day. Students will learn the science and math behind the application of their engineering projects to understand and make them work. Students will have the opportunity to work with industry partner mentors and be part of a Robotics or Science Olympiad team. Check out the New Cool: A Visionary Teacher, His FIRST Robotics Team, and the Ultimate Battle of Smarts by Neal Bascomb. (For more, see http://nealbascomb.com/first/ncool1.htm)
Identifying Potential Engineers
There is no one ’type’ of person who becomes an engineer. If you know a student or are a student who
-
is creative
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likes collaborating with others
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is curious and persistent
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wants to make a difference
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likes solving problems or improving processes
. . . then you know some potential engineers. Are you
surprised that you didn’t see “excels at math and science” on this
list? It’s important that engineers have a solid background in
math and science, but ultimately, the best engineers are people who
use their communication skills, imagination, and analytical
abilities to invent, design, and build things that matter.” (http://www.engineeryourlife.org)