Engineering and Technology

Driven by the Standards for Technological Literacy, this National Science Foundation-sponsored book is written by national leaders in engineering and technology education and addresses the most contemporary technological content using engaging, pedagogically sound "informed design" activities. This unique approach encourages students to develop a thorough understanding of engineering and technology before they ever attempt to develop detailed design solutions. The activities present students with a design problem, and prompt students to begin the solution-finding process with research, inquiry, and analysis. Only after this important step can students begin to discuss specifications and constraints, propose alternatives, and select an optimal design. This process fosters a strong student-teacher discourse and cultivates language proficiency, both with the end result of enhancing student's overall knowledge. Testing, evaluation, and modifications are addressed next, followed by a communication of achievements in a class presentation and final design report. Woven throughout the text are passages that will acquaint students with the requirements, responsibilities, necessary personal attributes and attitudes, and educational pathways that will lead to success in the various technological areas.