10/18/09

Alternative Energy

In Alternative Energy, students explore the basic concepts of energy, as well as the law of conservation of energy. Information is presented about renewable and nonrenewable energy sources and how these resource types are important for meeting global energy demands. The advantages and disadvantages of alternative energy forms such as solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and hydropower are presented. Hands-on experiences include experiments with a wind turbine, solar cells, hydrogen fuel cell, and building a solar-powered model car.

Computer Graphics & Animation

In Computer Graphics & Animation, students learn how the use of computers can enhance products created by professional artists and animators. With the use of a computer and related software, students produce an animated sequence using cartoon characters. Students use a digital camera to capture a picture and create an animated project. Students also explore video animation design.

Computer Technology

In the Computer Technology Module, students explore the basic components of a computer and perform routine maintenance on a computer system. They also explore the use of a Windows operating system and add, remove, and test various computer components. Students work with parts inside the PC housing, such as expansion cards and memory modules. Students install and explore uses for peripheral items such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and printer.

Electricity

In Electricity, students learn the principles of electricity and draw a schematic of a parallel and series circuit. Students complete a series and parallel circuit as well as classify conductors and insulators. They use a voltage and ohm meter, and they identify the magnetic fields important to the concept of electricity. Students also measure voltage, resistance, and current during the Module activities.

Electronics

In the Electronics Module, students learn the common components of basic circuits in electronic devices. Students learn how to solder electrical components together to form a circuit. They also complete various electronic experiments using an educational instrument. The construction of a simple electronics kit helps them to learn the application of each component used to make the project function successfully.

Energy, Power & Mechanics

When students complete Energy, Power & Mechanics, they have a basic understanding of energy sources, the principles of power technology, and the concept of mechanical advantage and machines. Students see how fluids can be used with other simple machines. Using Synergistic educational

instruments, students learn the fundamentals of gears, fluid mechanics, and three classes of levers. Students also use a solar hot dog cooker and experience the concept of wind power. 

Engineering Bridges

In this Module, students solve an engineering problem as a team. Their task is to build a balsa wood bridge that will span a space and hold the most weight before breaking. There are certain rules that the students must follow to build their bridges correctly. Students learn the relationships between design, structure, and strength of a bridge. By building a bridge and testing its strength on a structure tester, students learn valuable engineering concepts and principles

Engineering Towers

Students utilize math, physics, and problem-solving skills in this Module. They are given a challenge to build a tower that will hold more weight than the towers built by their classmates. Designing, building, and testing a tower are the activity base in this Module. Using engineering skills and video segments, students learn the skills necessary to facilitate construction and evaluation of a tower.  

Flight Technology

In the Flight Technology Module, students learn the principles of flight. Students use a computer flight simulator to experience piloting an aircraft. Each student evaluates the other and prepares a written critique of his or her partner’s flight. Students are introduced to navigation and plot a course using angular measurement and mathematical computation.

Light & Lasers

In Light & Lasers, students explore aspects of light and lasers and see how that technology can be used. Students use geometric concepts to divide and reflect a laser beam along a path and to create a security system utilizing the beam. Light is explored and manipulated through experiments that use lenses, prisms, filters, and intensity meters. The data from these experiments is analyzed and interpreted to provide a clear picture of the nature of light.

Robots

In Robots, students learn about the fascinating role that robots play in our lives. More and more, this technology is helping to improve the way we live and manufacture items. Students learn how to operate, program, and use robots in different environments. Initially, each student learns to manipulate the robot and program it to conduct repeatable tasks. Ultimately, they operate a robot located in a remote location away from direct view via a televised image of the work task.

 Rocketry & Space

In the Rocketry & Space Module, students learn about the development of rocketry and the United States space program and its history. The principles of rocket design, propulsion, and certain scientific principles that are fundamental to successful rocket flight are important concepts in this Module. Students construct and launch a model rocket as a means of bringing application to the scientific concepts presented.

Video Production

In the Video Production Module, students learn many facets of video production and communication. Students explore the working of a video camera, the editing process, and Federal Communication Commission regulations. They organize ideas, write scripts, outline a storyboard, shoot video, and edit their video productions. Students also study the effect of media in their own lives and use this information to produce a persuasive public service announcement.

Webmaster

In the Webmaster Module, students explore the role of a Webmaster, or Internet Web site manager. Students are responsible for the planning, designing, developing, and maintaining of an Internet Web site on the topic of their choice that is worthy of being published to the World Wide Web.

Research & Presentation

In Research & Presentation, students locate, evaluate, and document resources, including books, CD-ROM encyclopedias, and Web sites. They are shown how to take notes and avoid plagiarism in their work. Using Microsoft PowerPoint software, students create and deliver a multimedia slide presentation based on their research. Students are also exposed to guidelines for effectively delivering a presentation and communicating with an audience.

Simple Machines

In the Simple Machines Module, students explore how work, force, energy, and machines make moving objects easier through the use of the computer and hands-on activities. Students use variables and equations to describe the principles of simple machines. Students use the information they learn about simple machines to design a compound machine that moves an object.