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Principles of Technology

 

Student at the P T lab station

The Principles of Technology program is a course in applied science offered through the Fox Valley Career Center (in Maple Park, Illinois, U.S.A.) for high school students who either plan on pursuing careers as technicians or are keenly interested in the impact and advances of modern technology. These students come from all over the surrounding local area to attend this particular Principles of Technology class (which is currently located at St. Charles North High School, Illinois).

Students participate in a wide spectrum of conceptually-based classroom activities related to technology. The course also offers students a progressive learning environment, using authentic assessments and co-operative learning to develop critical thinking skills. And, although Principles of Technology provides the prerequisite foundation for any student planning to further his or her academic education, it is additionally ideal for students who intend to transit to a chosen vocation immediately after high school.

Aside from acquiring the traditional knowledge of physics necessary to the background of any student of science, students engage in a unique series of projects designed to hone problem solving and their ability to integrate real-world solutions. While many of these projects are hands-on activities, such as the design and construction of a spaghetti bridge for example, some are specific exercises reflecting on the role of scientific habits of mind and meta-cognition ("thinking about ways of thinking").

Students also discover more about career opportunities during tours of various manufacturing facilities in their communities. Past tours have included Fermilab, Bison Gear & Engineering, Teltrend and Caterpillar.

Additionally, there is a Robotics portion of the class which meets twice a week, wherein students are trained how to program designs into functional products (using one of three automated tools -- such as the CNC slant bed lathe). From this Robotics work and the Principles of Technology labs, the students compile a portfolio, in which they will place a resume (or data sheet) they have created in class.

Perhaps, from a student's point of view, the most attractive field trip of this course is the annual Great America field trip, where students apply their newfound knowledge of physics while having fun. At the amusement park, students measure the g-force and acceleration of roller coasters and collect various other data from the rides.

CLICK HERE to enter the ROBOTICS READING ROOM

Phone: (630) 365-5113

FAX: (630) 365-9088

http://www.kaneland.org/fvcc/main.htm

E-mail the Principles of Technology instructor