Course Description
Investigating STEM Skills is a course where students investigate two skill sets of engineering: 3D modeling and civil engineering. Students investigate the essential questions of How can I, as en engineer, use 3D modeling and printing to my advantage? and How do civil engineers use structure to their advantage? Students dive into skill development in computer aided design, 3D printing advanced skills, structural design, simulations, and truss calculations. Students apply the skills learned in each semester of this year long course during a ten week project phase. Students design their own project based on research from an academic class that is filtered through the skills gained in Investigating STEM Skills.
Professional Models
Standards and Rubrics
Core Engineering Skills Standards
Investigating STEM Skills Unit Standards
Habits of Professionalism Standards
- CST1: Observing in Engineering
Engineers will make observations of professional models and Engineers examples of work through the lenses of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; making observations that look in depth, recognize patterns, and use engineering notebook for gathering and recording information (research, sketches, and analysis) - CST2: Wondering in Engineering
Engineers will brainstorm all possible solutions to problems without passing judgement on those solutions. They will question every aspect of problems and look in depth for solutions to do not exist - CST3: Connecting in Engineering
Engineers will interpret new knowledge through their connections to past knowledge. Engineers will create visual depictions of brainstormed solutions, creating multiple prototypes and sketches of models through paper sketching, computer-aided design, and physical modeling - CST4: Reasoning & Interpreting in Engineering
Engineers will reason and interpret brainstormed solutions to problems through the mindset of an engineering. Looking at all solutions in depth and creating a claim through support that has concrete, unobjectionable evidence. - CST5: Innovating in Engineering
Engineers will develop unique solutions to current and future problems that challenge current solutions. Engineers will make their own end products and learn through copying. They will make their own ideas through the redesign of current solutions and always driving their own engineering design process.
Investigating STEM Skills Unit Standards
- Digital Logic Unit
- UST1: Binary Code and Conversion
Engineers will be able to count in binary, convert numbers between binary and decimal, and use binary to explain the purpose of a circuit.. - UST2: AOI Logic and Simplification
Engineers will be able to use AOI logic to develop solutions to every day problems and understand the logic behind electronics.
- UST1: Binary Code and Conversion
- Programming Unit
- UST3: Algorithms
Engineers will be able to create a logical algorithm with a clear beginning and end point that walks through multi-step processe - UST4: Program Development
Engineers will be able to create and develop a program that has executable commands based on entered variables.
- UST3: Algorithms
Habits of Professionalism Standards
- PST1: Habits of Work
Engineer is mostly prepared and organized for learning, but may have a lapse in work ethic. Engineers will, at times, ask questions and seek to clarify when they do not understand. Engineer meets most deadlines and attempts to produce high quality work through revisions. - PST2: Habits of Collaboration
Engineer is collaborative in most settings and shows balance in leadership and cooperation and does so in a positive manner. Engineer can distinguish between group and personal goals - PST3: Habits of Self-Discipline
Engineer displays some traits of independent learning in most settings. Engineer has ability to set goals and utilize studio time to accomplish tasks for completion. Engineer exhibits sustained focus and persistence in most situations. Engineer understands consequences due to his/her choices and actions. - PST4: Habits of Communication
Engineer is able to use effective communication through demonstration of disciplinary language. Engineer is able to convey ideas, provide feedback, and synthesize professional models through their own voice and reasoning. Engineer has a voice in group discussions and workshops. Engineer often listens respectfully. - PST5: Habits of Learning
Engineer is able to demonstrate a growth mindset approach to self-assessment and feedback. Engineer is often open to suggestions. Engineer is reflective through a journaling and conferencing process. Engineer demonstrates knowledge and application of some disciplinary language.