Curriculum is based upon national standards and identified best practices to advance STEM literacy for all students. Programming was developed with strategic emphasis on gender, racial and socio-economic concerns. Students establish Engineering Habits of the Mind or an open-ended problem solving capacity which will provide the served community with a STEM literate citizenry. Schools are empowered with a comprehensive STEM pedagogy and a proprietary Learning Management System for continuous improvement planning for students, teachers and administration based upon actionable, research based student outcome data.
Curriculum is intended for flexible use based upon national best practice implementation and integration strategies and is accessible via internet. The project-based curriculum is intended to be instructor led and can also natively be utilized for a distance or web-based learning environment. While it is prescribed for high school sites to begin with the implementation of the FOUNDATION COURSE SCHEDULE , schools can initiate their advancement toward full STEM literacy through the implementation of a single course. Courses feature a national third party pre- and post-exam. This examination is designed and scored through an unbiased third party to insure the integrity of the process and verify that the content has been learned and outcomes and standards have been met by the student. Students may earn up to (3) credits for course completion from a national network of university, career and technical college partners.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
All instructors, career counselors and administrators from the proposed school site will have the opportunity to attend a (3 Day) STEM Orientation Training session. Participants will learn the STEM pedagogy, best practices for curriculum delivery, course sequencing, career pathways and how to manage student outcome data. For every (15) hours of participation instructors will qualify for (1) graduate school credit from University of Wisconsin at La Crosse. Instructors who will be leading or participating in delivery of a full academic year course can attending the (4 Day) STEM Instructor Training Boot Camp during the summer at one of our university partner sites or at a STEM Professional Development Center. Following STEM Instructor Training participants will be welcomed to the National STEM Professional Learning Environment where collaboration and innovative education practices develop organically. During the academic year administrators can elevate the competency of instructors to deliver STEM curriculum with the onsite STEM Instructor Mentor Program. Schools will receive an onsite visit from a member of our STEM Academic Leadership Team to analyze instructor curriculum delivery practices and provide practical recommendations for improvement based upon extensive experience.
FOUNDATION COURSE SCHEDULE
The Foundation Course schedule represents the prescribed curricular content foundation required to deploy a true STEM academic model with the capacity to empower an entire school site with the resources to integrate an interconnected or multidisciplinary approach to STEM. Schools who wish to emphasize a specific aspect of STEM can scale up by selecting additional courses from the STEM 101 HS course list below. Courses feature learning activities based upon STEM principles which challenge students to develop critical thinking and problem solving capacity. The real-world learning activities utilize resources demanded by the industry today and of tomorrow. Students activities explore aerodynamics, aeronautics, alternative energy, architecture, biotechnology, electronics, engineering, material science, robotics and sustainability. Instructors can query the LMS to identify curricular units or activities which are specific to their academic subject area. The units or activities can then be integrated into a traditional academic subject area to show application for learning and the interconnectivity of STEM. An academic model which features both stand-alone course offerings and an interconnected STEM academic philosophy yields best results.
STEM101 HS COURSES
INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING
This STEM course is a basic introduction to engineering for all students. Students who complete this course will learn the concepts necessary in order to develop their ideas into solutions that will improve our lives. Exciting hands-on learning activities like data comparison of heart rates, rating consumer products, destructive testing and 3D solid modeling apply math, science, history and English content from other courses in a STEM experience.
UNITS: The Secret to Success (Failure), What is Engineering, Engineering Communications, Success in the Classroom, Systems and Optimization, History of Engineering, Kick out the Ladder, Teamwork and Concurrent Engineering, Measurement, Introduction to 3D Solid Modeling, Materials, Basic Electricity, Problems Solving, Design and Modeling, Traditional Engineering Disciplines, FastTrack RC Culminating Project
3D SOLID MODELING
Learning 3D design is an interactive process. Students learn best when they can explore the practical applications of the concepts that they learn. This STEM course has many activities and exercises that enable students to put design concepts into practice. Students create their ideas such as artificial heart components, extreme sports equipment, hip replacement parts, robotic arm components, musical instruments and their parts as well as many others. Ideas become reality in this course.
UNITS: Understanding a Graphical User Interface (GUI), Basic Functionality, Sketched Features, Basic Operations in 3D Solid Modeling, Applied Features, Loft Features, Pattern Features, Fillets, Design Tables, Assembly Basics, Toolbox Basics, Drafting Basics, Visualization, Basic Sheet Metal Design Theory, Surfacing Features, Weldment Features, Predictive Analysis and Simulation, SolidWorks CSWA Certification
DESIGN FOR MANUFACTURING
Design for Manufacturing teaches general manufacturing techniques. Calculations and analysis tools are used to design and redesign student's concepts. This course applies and integrates ideas that have been generated in other courses and generates life size models and prototypes. Industry standard software and machinery are used to manufacture student's ideas with verification programs to determine the ability for a plan to be mass produced. Certification will advance students toward continuing education and career opportunities in the fields of engineering, design and machine operation.
UNITS: Introduction to Manufacturing, Reading Technical Drawings, Introduction to Machining, Mills and Milling Operations, Math in Manufacturing, Conversion Measurements and Tools, Simple Metallurgy, Cutting Tools, Cutting Feeds, Speeds and RPM, Chip Formation, Load and MRR, Cutting Tools Geometry, The Science and Skill of Measuring, Introduction to Computer Numerical Control, Coordinates, Axis and Motion, Introduction to Geometrics, Before and After the Machine, Advanced Technology Section , Beyond Chip Making (Laser, Water Jet EDM)
PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING
This STEM course makes a contribution to the curriculum by providing opportunities for students and teachers to link content together and apply it to solve problems. More and more jobs demand advanced skills, requiring that people be able to learn, reason, think creatively, make decisions, and solve problems. An understanding of science, technology, engineering and math and their methods contribute in an essential way to these skills. Principles of engineering is a team based advanced course designed for most students. Students who complete this course will engage in real world case studies and learning activities that focus on the engineering process and making the world a better place to live and work in.
UNITS: Teamwork and Concurrent Engineering, Systems and Optimization, Gantt and Flow Charts, Ethics, Gears Trebuchet, Technical Communications, Project Management, Rube Goldberg Machines, Failure Modes and Effect Analysis, Introduction to Finite Element Analysis, Problem Solving, Design and Modeling, Engineering Work Experience, Industry Design Challenge
ARCHITECTURE FEATURING GREEN METHODS
Architecture is more than just walls around us. The form and function of the spaces we live and work in are at the heart of how any design comes to life. This course will investigate how the structure is designed and build as well as the layout of spaces between the walls. Students will be introduced to a variety of concepts including green building and sustainable design in architecture. Students will apply the concepts introduces to a 'dream home' that they design and model.
UNITS: Experience Building Information Modeling (BIM), Designing your Dream Home, Building the Brailsford House (Part 1 + 2), BIM Essentials, Construction Techniques, Advanced Modeling, Collaboration, Building Objects
SUSTAINABLE METHODS
This course is a general introduction to sustainability and renewable energy. Often as individuals we do not understand the impact of simple choices we make every day. This course will attempt to offer insight into these and other decisions we make. Major topics in this STEM based course are food, shelter, water, air, energy, waste, transportation and consumerism. Also included will be a study of the -101 things we all need to know-. The investigation of these topics will be at the global, national, local and personal levels.
UNITS: What is Sustainability?, Energy, Water, Air and Climate, Food, The Built Environment, Transportation, Waste, Wind Energy, Solar Energy, Fuel Cell Technology
ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
Students build skills for success through, research, experiments, and challenges that incorporate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts. Engineering Technology introduces students to a variety of different technologies. They gain experience with using measurement tools and instruments, and perform experiments with electrical circuits, mechanical and fluid systems.
UNITS: Simple Machines, Pulleys and Gears, Belts and Pulleys, Cams and Linkages , Principles of Fluid Power, Control and Monitoring Pressure , Air Pressure and System Monitors , Force in Fluid Systems, Flow Control, Basic Electricity, Batteries, Circuits and Switches, Resistors and Ohm's Law, Electrical Power and Energy , Magnetism and Electromagnetism, Alternating Current, Transformers, Capacitance
GENERAL FABRICATION METHODS
This course is a general introduction to fabrication practices that every student should know and be able to do. Procedures and projects in this course are simple and easy to do for all students. The methods that will be introduced will be applicable to advanced courses in the STEM academy, and everyday home living. Students will become familiar with general tools and building methods that they can utilize when they construct working prototypes and models. Several simple projects will be completed by students while they learn new techniques.
UNITS: Fundamentals of Lab Work, Safety in the Lab, Layout, Metalworking Techniques, Material Joinery, Cutting, Drilling and Bonding Operations, Sizing and Welding Operations, Finishing and Assembly , Processes , Jigs and Fixtures, Wood Techniques, Sheet Metal Techniques, Composite Applications, Large Project Assembly Methods , Cumulative Fabrication Experience
MATERIAL SCIENCE
This course appeals to a wide range of students with its unique combination of science, ingenuity, creativity, and exciting hands-on labs. Material Science uses a multidisciplinary approach to science and technology. Students learn about materials, material uses and applications, scientific theories, and practical experiences that prepare them to work in a technologically-rich environment. The basic principles of physics, chemistry and biology are used in the study of materials.
UNITS: Metals, Polymers, Ceramics, Composites
FOUNDATIONS IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
This STEM based course explores the world of biotechnology including the basics of microbiology, bio-processing, generic engineering, and biotechnology careers as well as examining the role of biotechnology in the medical field. Bioengineering and forensics and food biotechnology are also topics students will explore. This course is a hands-on, experiment based experience that will keep students interested with exciting lab based learning.
UNITS: Exploring Foundations in Bio-Technology, Careers Related to Bio-Technology, Basics of Bio-Technology and Micro-Biology, Basics of Chemistry, Understanding Bio-Processing, Investigating Genetic Engineering, Exploring Bio-Chemistry, Examining All Aspects of Industry, The Role of Bio-Technology in Agriculture, Bio-Technology's Role in Medicine, Food Bio-Technology, Applying Bio-Technology to the Environment, Bioethics, Forensics, Bio-Engineering and Nanotechnology, Immunology
FOUNDATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY
This course prepares students to understand and apply technological concepts and processes that are the cornerstone of the high school technology education program. Students study the nature and technological issues of the designed world. Students engage in group and individual activities where they develop innovations, design, fabricate, and engineer practical solutions to a variety of problems. Technology content, resources, and laboratory/classroom activities allow students to apply science, mathematics, and other school subjects in authentic situations.
UNITS: Nature of Technology (Characteristics and scope of technology; Core concepts of technology; Relationships among technologies and other fields of study), Technology and Society (Cultural, social, economic, and political effects of technology; Effects of technology on the environment; Role of society in the development and use of technology; Influence of technology on history), Design (Attributes of design; Engineering design; Role of troubleshooting, research and development, invention and innovation, and experimentation in problem solving), Abilities for a Technological World (Apply the design process; Use and maintain technological products and systems; Assess the impact of products and systems), The Designed World (Medical technologies; Agricultural and related biotechnologies; Energy and power technologies; Information and communication technologies; Transportation technologies; Manufacturing technologies; Construction technologies).
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INTRODUCTION TO RENEWABLE ENERGY
Renewable energy provides a political, economic and technical framework for the study of scientific concepts and methodology. Renewable energy utilization rests on the development of advanced technical skills: engineering research and design; electrical power production, transmission and utilization; manufacturing; transportation modeling; urban planning and design among others. The translating of scientific concepts into working physical models offers unparalleled opportunities for students to practice creative and critical thinking, and to problem-solve in a tangible context.
UNITS: Energy, Fossil Fuels and Climate; Home Energy Use; Building Energy Efficiency; Solar Energy; Wind Energy; Hydrogen; Transportation; Biomass and Biofuels; Geothermal Energy; Hydropower
GREEN BUILDING SCIENCE
This course looks at the science behind building structures to Green and LEED Certifications. Course is designed for all students in a school. Designed as a science course or a precursor to building trades courses. The GREEN Academy has partnered with Energy STAR.
UNITS: Leed Certification; Energy STAR Certification; Site Protection; Water Protection; Building Envelope; Health and Indoor Air Quality; Materials Efficiency; Design and Materials Selection; Residential energy analysis; Energy in Buildings; Home Wind Turbines; Solar Electric Systems; Energy for Heating Buildings; Solar Water Heating; Insulation; Glass in Construction; Heat Pumps.
Update: please note that previous versions of this page had the graduate credit for every eight hours which was an error, fifteen hours are built into each graduate credit instructors qualify for.