Incorporation of pre-engineering lessons into secondary science classrooms

Abstract

The Pre-Engineering Instructional and Outreach Program (PrE-IOP) has been established to enlarge the future pool of qualified high-tech workers, including those who have been historically underrepresented (minorities and women). This is being accomplished through two components: (1) the implementation of pre-engineering curriculum in middle and high schools; and (2) a comprehensive information campaign about the rewards of science, engineering, mathematics and technology (SMET) professions. Engineering faculty are working with science teachers to create connections between the science used in engineering applications in the modern workplace and standards-based science. The curriculum materials are grade specific and fit the instructional classroom needs of grades 6-12 teachers by addressing the content standards in science, mathematics and technology. Most importantly, it focuses on teaching the pre-engineering skills of design and problem solving needed to convey the skills and knowledge required for successful admission to undergraduate engineering education programs. Summer institutes are designed to familiarize the teachers with the curriculum and the associated pedagogy. The development of integrated curriculum modules for middle and high schools and the teacher-training program for the first year are described.