ENGINEERING
Early Engineering Fundamentals
Introduction to basic engineering concepts through hands-on activities and design challenges for young learners.
Example Activity:
Build simple structures using blocks and test their stability.
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ENGINEERING
Elementary Engineering Design
Engineering design process and problem-solving activities tailored for elementary school students.
Example Activity:
Design and test a water filtration system using household materials.
ENGINEERING
Middle School Engineering Challenges
More complex engineering projects and challenges that integrate science, math, and technology concepts.
Example Activity:
Design and build a solar-powered vehicle.
ENGINEERING
High School Engineering Principles
Advanced engineering concepts, design projects, and career exploration for high school students.
Example Activity:
Design and program an autonomous robot to solve a specific challenge.
ENGINEERING
Civil Engineering Projects
Resources for exploring structures, infrastructure, and environmental engineering across grade levels.
Example Activity:
Design and build a model bridge that can support weight.
ENGINEERING
Mechanical Engineering Activities
Hands-on projects exploring machines, mechanics, robotics, and energy systems.
Example Activity:
Build a simple machine that demonstrates mechanical advantage.
ENGINEERING
Electrical Engineering Projects
Exploration of circuits, electronics, and electrical systems through age-appropriate projects.
Example Activity:
Build simple circuits with batteries, lights, and switches.
ENGINEERING
Engineering and Society
Resources examining the impact of engineering on society, ethics, and sustainable development.
Example Activity:
Research and present on engineering solutions to global challenges.
Engineering Design Process
The engineering design process is a series of steps that engineers follow to solve problems and create solutions. This iterative process is central to engineering education at all levels.
Steps in the Engineering Design Process:
- Define the Problem
- Identify needs and constraints
- Research the problem thoroughly
- Specify requirements that must be met
- Brainstorm Solutions
- Generate multiple ideas and possibilities
- Consider unconventional approaches
- Encourage creativity without judgment
- Design and Select a Solution
- Evaluate potential solutions against requirements
- Consider trade-offs between different designs
- Select the most promising approach
- Build a Prototype
- Create a model or prototype of the solution
- Use appropriate materials and techniques
- Focus on key functional elements
- Test and Evaluate
- Develop testing procedures that relate to requirements
- Collect and analyze data
- Identify strengths and weaknesses
- Improve and Redesign
- Use testing results to improve the design
- Make specific modifications to address problems
- Repeat the testing process with the improved design
- Communicate Results
- Document the design process and solution
- Present findings and results clearly
- Explain design decisions and trade-offs
Resources for Teaching Engineering Design:
Diverse Engineers Who Changed the World
Learning about diverse engineers throughout history can inspire students and demonstrate the impact of engineering on society.
Mae C. Jemison
First African American woman in space, engineer, physician, and entrepreneur who founded technology companies focused on applying technology to daily life.
Granville T. Woods
Inventor and electrical engineer who developed improvements to the telegraph, telephone, and electric railway systems, holding over 60 patents.
Ellen Ochoa
Engineer, astronaut, and first Hispanic woman in space who developed optical systems for aerospace applications and later served as Director of the Johnson Space Center.
Lewis Howard Latimer
Self-taught engineer who worked with Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, improving the electric light bulb with a carbon filament and developing the process for manufacturing carbon filaments.