Introduction to Engineering-Design Challenge 1 for ages 13-16!

In this course, students will compete in a design challenge and will experience the engineering design process. There will be opportunities for reflection, redesign, prototyping, collaboration, and so much more!

This class will start with the first step of the engineering design process where students determine what the problem is that they are trying and to solve and what their "stakeholders" want from them. Next, students will brainstorm ideas, put a come up with plans and concepts. They will then begin to prototype and implement their concept ideas. Finally, students will decide if they need to repeat any steps, reflect on their solution, and choose to finalize it. We will end back at the beginning to see if students were able to accurately solve the problem in order to meet the needs of the stakeholders and will present their final thoughts and designs. 

My teaching style is very student-led. I provide the structures and norms to make class a safe place for creating and sharing. I try to foster healthy communication and collaboration within the learning space and welcome student voice and choice as long as it contributes positively to the learning environment and leads to greater depths and ownership of learning. 

There will be about 60% discussion and interaction with others in the class and about 40% independent, explorative, and hands-on learning. I will be available every step of the way. Students are encouraged to help each other and work together on certain steps of the engineering design process. 

No background knowledge is needed. This is an introductory class.