Technical Science Course Description:
This comprehensive course introduces students to the fundamentals of technology through hands-on exploration and design-based learning. Students will examine technology as a system, explore essential resources including tools, materials, energy, and information, and apply the engineering design process to solve real-world problems. The course covers major technological contexts including agricultural, construction, energy conversion, information and communication, manufacturing, medical, and transportation technologies. Students will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and design skills while exploring the societal impacts of technology and future innovations. This course is designed for the career and technical student who will learn how systems and technologies in and around their field of study work and how that impacts the way they do their job safely and effectively.
Textbook:
We will be using Exploring Design, Technology & Engineering, 4th Edition by Ryan A. Brown (Goodheart-Willcox, 2024). A copy of this text will be provided. You will be expected to return it at the end of the course in the same condition as when it was assigned.
General Outline:
Unit 1-3............ What Is Technology, Systems & the Universal Model, Historical & Societal Context
Unit 4.............. Tools, Mechanisms, Machines & Machine Tools
Unit 5-6............ Materials: Types, Processing, Properties & Safety
Unit 7.............. Energy Sources and Technology
Unit 8.............. Information, Research & Knowledge in Design
Unit 9.............. Invention and Innovation
Unit 10-13.......... The Design Process: Problem Identification, Creating & Selecting Solutions
Unit 14-15.......... Modeling, Testing & Assessment
Unit 16-17.......... Communication, Drafting & People/Time/Money in Technology
Unit 18-24.......... Technology in Context: Agriculture, Construction, Energy Conversion, Information & Communication, Manufacturing, Medical, Transportation
Unit 25-26.......... Technological Impacts and the Future
Unit 27............. Advanced Topics and Career Applications
See Calendar for details Current Trimester Calendar
Grading:
Grading will be based on total points accumulated during each trimester. Points are earned through the following categories:
Laboratory Work — 30% Design Projects and Portfolios — 30%
Quizzes and Problem Sets — 30% Participation and Professionalism — 10%
Make certain that makeup work is done in a timely fashion, per the current student handbook. The grading scale will be standard percentage as follows:
92-100 A 84-91 B 77-83 C 70-76 D 69 and below F
Classroom Technology and Recording Policy:
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 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.
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 appropriate permissions, is a violation of our classroom policy.
Consequences of Violation: Any student found in violation of this 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.
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 may be granted on a case-by-case basis while still maintaining a productive learning environment.
Rules and Lab Safety:
Because this room is a laboratory as well as a classroom, all laboratory equipment must be handled carefully and returned to proper storage locations. Broken or damaged equipment must be reported immediately to the instructor. Safety goggles must be worn during all laboratory activities where necessary. Be on time and prepared for class with all necessary materials, treat all classmates, the instructor, and equipment with respect, and follow all laboratory safety procedures at all times. At the end of class, ensure your work area is clean and organized before dismissal.