• STEM
    Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

    A career in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (S.T.E.M.) is challenging and ever-changing. Learners who pursue one of these career fields will be involved in planning, managing, and providing scientific research and professional and technical services (e.g., physical science, social science, engineering) including laboratory and testing services, and research and development services. Project Lead The Way (PLTW) includes a three year sequence of courses which introduces students to the scope, rigor and discipline of engineering and engineering technology prior to entering college. Introduction at this level will allow high school students to determine if engineering is the career they desire. Students participating in PLTW courses are better prepared for college engineering programs and more likely to be successful, thus reducing the attrition rate in these college programs, which currently exceeds 50% nationally. The Technology Student Association (TSA), the student organization for students enrolled in S.T.E.M, is an avenue by which leadership, citizenship, and technical skills are integrated into the instructional program. Leadership training is provided through curriculum activities in which students learn to conduct and participate constructively in organized meetings, speak effectively before groups, work cooperatively with others, solve problems, and compete as individuals. TSA assists students in the achievement of technologically related competencies in the areas of bio-related technology, communication, engineering, electronics, graphics, design, manufacturing, and research and development.

     

     

    PROJECT LEAD THE WAY

    PRE-ENGINEERING --

    Students may begin the three year program in the 10th grade or later, but must take the courses in sequence in order for the training and education to be most effective. The courses are outlined in their proper sequential order.

     
    Year 1: Semester 1 (PLTW)

    Introduction To Engineering Design

    Grade Placement ..........10-12

    Credits ...........................1 (Accelerated: Double Blocked for One Semester)

    Prerequisite ...................None

    Partnerships..................University of North Texas, Engineering Department
     
    Have you ever tried to design something or draw up an idea? Have you wondered how someone designed the new MP3 player or new phone? This course teaches problem-solving skills using a design development process. Models of product solutions are created, analyzed, and communicated using solid modeling computer design software. Students will have the opportunity to test for university credit.
     
    Year 1: Semester 2 (PLTW)

    Computer Integrated Manufacturing

    Grade Placement ..........12

    Credits ...........................1 (Accelerated: Double Blocked for One Semester)

    Prerequisite ...................Introduction to Engineering Design

    Partnerships ..................University of North Texas, Engineering Department
     
    This course applies principles of robotics and automation and builds on computer solid modeling skills developed in Introduction to Engineering Design. Students use CNC equipment to produce actual models of their threedimensional designs. Fundamental concepts of robotics used in automated manufacturing, and design analysis are  included. Students will have the opportunity to test for university credit.
     
    Year 2: Semester 1 (PLTW)

    Principles Of Engineering

    Grade Placement ..........10-12

    Credits ...........................1 (Accelerated: Double Blocked for One Semester)

    Prerequisite ...................Year 1 PLTW Engineering Courses

    Partnerships ..................University of North Texas, Engineering Department
     
    PLTW philosophy: By engaging in hands-on, real-world projects, students understand how the skills they are learning in the classroom can be applied in everyday life. This approach is called activities-based learning, project-based learning, and problem-based learning or APPB-learning. Principles Of Engineering™—Through projects students will explore various technology systems and manufacturing processes to learn how engineers and technicians use math, science and technology in the engineering problem solving process. The successful student can earn University

    credit with the end of course exam.

     

    Year 2: Semester 2 (PLTW)

    Civil Engineering and Architecture

    Grade Placement ..........11-12

    Credits ...........................1 (Accelerated: Double Blocked for One Semester)

    Prerequisite ...................Year 1 PLTW Engineering Courses and Principles of Engineering

    Partnerships ..................University of North Texas, Engineering Department
     
    Ever think about building a house, a store, a restaurant, and wondered how to go about it? Then Civil Engineering and Architecture TM is the course for you. The major focus of the course is a long-term project that involves the development of a local property site. As you learn about various aspects of civil engineering and architecture, they will apply their learning to the design and development of this property. There is flexibility for student and teacher in developing the property as a simulation or as a real-world experience that civil engineers and architects experience when developing property. Students have the opportunity to test for university credit.
     
    Year 3: Semester 1 (PLTW)

    Digital Electronics

    Grade Placement ..........12

    Credits ...........................1 (Accelerated: Double Blocked for One Semester)

    Prerequisite ...................Year 1 and 2 PLTW Engineering Courses

    Partnerships ..................University of North Texas, Engineering Department
     
    Digital Electronics is a course in applied logic that encompasses the application of electronic circuits and devices. Computer simulation software is used to design and test digital circuitry prior to the actual construction of circuits and devices. Students will have the opportunity to test for university credit.
     
    Year 3: Semester 2 (PLTW)

    Engineering Design and Development

    Grade Placement ..........12

    Credits ...........................1 (Accelerated: Double Blocked for One Semester)

    Prerequisite ...................Year 1 and 2 PLTW Engineering Courses and Digital Electronics

    Partnerships ..................University of North Texas, Engineering Department
     
    Engineering Design and Development™ (EDD) is the course that allows student to design a solution to a technical problem of his or her choosing. Now is the chance to eliminate one of the “Don’t you hate it when…” statements of the world. This course is an engineering research course in which students will work in teams to research, design, and construct a solution to an open-ended engineering problem. The product development life cycle and a design process will be used to guide and help the team reach a solution to the problem. The team will present and defend their solution to a panel of outside reviewers at the end of the school year. Students will have the opportunity to test for university credit.

    C

    Advanced Electronics

    Grade Placement ..........11-12

    Credits ...........................2

    Prerequisite ...................Recommended: Electronics (Application/Approval Required)

    Partnerships ..................International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET)

    What is the difference between what comes out from the wall socket, and what comes out of that little “black box” you plug your cell phone into to charge it? What is an IC chip? What is an LED? What is a LASER? How do we make things so small, and yet they can do so much? What actually goes on inside a computer? Just what does “digital” mean anyway? These questions and many more are answered as your adventure into the world of electronics continues with a more detailed study of: Direct Current (DC), Alternating Current (AC), Semiconductor, and Digital theories.

     

    Practicum in STEM - Electronics

    Grade Placement ..........12

    Credits ...........................2

    Prerequisite ...................Electronics

    Partnership ....................Texas State Technical College
     
    This course is a capstone experience in Electronics. The Practicum is designed to give students supervised practical electronics application through individual research.

     

    Practicum in STEM - Biomedical Technology

    Grade Placement ..........12

    Credits ...........................2

    Prerequisite ...................Electronics

    Partnership ....................Texas State Technical College
     
    This course is a capstone experience in Electronics with an emphasis in Biomedical applications.. The Practicum is designed to give students supervised practical application through individual research in biomedical applications.
     

     

     

     



Last Modified on July 22, 2010