Principles of Technology

PRINCIPLES OF TECHNOLOGY I (PT I) Links Page

Mr. Longwell

T1 Calendar           T2 Calendar          T3 Calendar

Course Description:

The goal of PT I is to give students a hands-on learning experience in the fundamentals behind technology. Four technological systems will be studied: mechanical, fluid, electrical, and thermal. Using mathematics as a tool the student will be expected to improve problem solving and critical thinking skills.

Instructional Philosophy:

Students will be introduced to fundamental concepts in science, and then apply those ideas to technical areas. The concepts will be investigated in detail, with laboratory activities at the center of all instruction. Expectations include performing laboratory tasks in a timely manner, following all safety rules, and helping with equipment inventory. Also, most labs require mathematical skills before proper conclusions can be reached, so it is necessary that students complete all math-related practice activities and come to class with calculators every day. Tests typically are approximately 50% theory questions and 50% math skills, with many questions pertaining to lab procedures, results, and conclusions. Occasionally, a lab skill will also be assessed. Time will also be used for reading and writing assignments, which are designed to help students improve those skills as well as improve retention of important material.

General Outline:

Intro - Measurement   ---   Unit III - Rate   ---   Unit I - Force   ---   Unit II - Work   ---   Unit IV - Resistance

Course Goals:

1. Define and describe systems involving:

(a) Force, torque, pressure, voltage, and temperature difference (Unit I).

(b) Mechanical, fluid, and electrical work, including the efficiency and mechanical advantage of machines (Unit II).

(c) Mechanical, fluid, electrical, and thermal rate (Unit III).

          (d) Mechanical, fluid, electrical, and thermal resistance (Unit IV).

2. Relate the above concepts to specific areas in Lenape's technical programs.

3. Use reading and writing as tools to learn content and review procedures.

4. Use technology such as spreadsheets, meters, gauges, calipers, oscilloscopes, etc. to aid in data collection and analysis for lab activities.

5. Solve mathematical problems directly related to lab activities or other realistic applications.

Potential Lab Activities:

Measurement Labs, Pendulum Lab, Stress Force on a Spring, Force Vectors, Torque Labs, Specific Gravity of Antifreeze, Manometers and Pressure Gauges, Batteries, Voltage in Simple Circuits, Thermometers, Thermocouples, Efficiency of Pulley Systems, Efficiency of Winch Systems, Efficiency of Air Cylinders, Efficiency of Water Pumps, Efficiency of DC Motors, Solenoids, Conveyors, Rotational Rate of DC Motors (Strobe Tachometers), Flow Rate in Water Channels, Flow Rate in Air Columns, Current in Simple Circuits, Oscilloscopes (AC Frequency), Thermal Rate Labs.

Textbook:

Physics in Context, published by the Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD). The book will be provided by the school and reading assignments will generally be done in class.  A student who wants a “take home book” can check one out, but generally we use a class set of books during instructional time. 

Grading:

Grading will be based on total points accumulated during each trimester. The percentages for both trimesters will be averaged for a final grade. Points can be accumulated through the following:

Tests Quizzes Homework Lab Assignments Writing Assignments Projects

Please refer to my Lab Scoring Rubric for specific guidance on lab grades. Proper notice will be given for any test, but quizzes and the collection of homework may or may not be announced in advance! This means short reading assignments as well as homework questions must be done. The grading scale will be standard percentage as follows:

92-100 A 84-91 B 77-83 C 70-76 D

Make certain that makeup work is done in a timely fashion. Work needs to be completed using the days missed = days to complete equation.

Classroom Technology and Recording Policy:

1. Phone and Wearable Technology Usage: In order to maintain a focused and respectful learning environment, all students are required to place their phones and wearable technology in the designated storage area before the start of each class session. This policy aims to minimize distractions and promote active engagement during lectures, discussions, and activities.  This location will be noted in the assigned room.  There will be occasions where personal devices can be used on assignments, but those times will be clearly defined.  

2. Two-Party Consent for Recording: As a reminder, the state of Pennsylvania follows a two-party consent law when it comes to recording conversations. This means that in order to legally record any audio or video content, consent must be obtained from all parties involved. Therefore, any form of recording, including audio or video recordings, without the explicit consent of all individuals present is strictly prohibited within the classroom premises.

3. Respect for Privacy and Intellectual Property: Respecting the privacy and intellectual property of both your peers and instructors is essential. Sharing, distributing, or publishing any recorded material, including images, audio, or video captured within the classroom, without the appropriate permissions, is a violation of our classroom policy.

4. Consequences of Violation: Any student found in violation of the technology and recording policy may face disciplinary action, which may include a verbal warning, written warning, or further consequences as deemed appropriate by the instructor and/or Lenape Administration

5. Exceptions and Accommodations: Individuals who require special accommodations due to medical, accessibility, or other valid reasons are encouraged to communicate their needs with the instructor prior to class. Exceptions to the technology policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, while still ensuring the maintenance of a productive learning environment.

6. Questions and Clarifications: If you have any questions, concerns, or require clarification regarding this classroom policy, please do not hesitate to reach out to the instructor so that students have a clear understanding of the guidelines in place.

Rules and Lab Safety:

Because this room is a laboratory as well as a classroom, and students may not be aware of potential dangers, absolutely no horseplay will be tolerated at any time. Penalties will include detention and docked lab points. If I judge it to be especially hazardous or a continuing problem, expulsion from the laboratory will result and alternative assignments will be assigned. Specific safety precautions will be discussed prior to each lab, and following procedures is mandatory. Failure to follow lab instructions will result in lost points. Always be careful and considerate in the lab.