Fourth graders built a model windmill using a three-step process: (1) open exploration of designs; (2) application of a standard model incorporating features of suggested designs; and (3) refinement of preliminary models. The approach required math, science, and technology teacher collaboration and adequate time. (Contains 21 references.) (SK)

Profiles Curt Prchal, winner of a Disney American Teacher Award. Describes his modular technology lab approach to developing higher order skills. (JOW)

To prepare students for several changes in careers during their lifetime, Technology Challenge is a program designed to meet the challenges in the evolution of technology education from traditional industrial arts. In a laboratory setting, students solve real-world problems using computer technology. (JOW)

Introduces three design challenges for fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students created by the Challenger Center for Space Science Education. Presents information on Space Day and the National Classroom and provides Internet site addresses. (YDS)

A resource designed to introduce design and technology to refugee students for whom English is an additional language uses graphics to help explain tasks. As a standalone resource, it can be used at any time during the year and it can be varied to suit students' abilities. (SK)

An experimental group of 17 eighth graders and 16 controls conducted 2 iterations of an activity to design wind collectors. Experimentals received science and math instruction between iterations. The control group scored better on the posttest. Interviews showed the experimentals tried to apply science concepts; the controls depended on what they…

A group of 116 Finnish fifth- through ninth-graders used a problem-solving technology and crafts curriculum with computers; a control group (n=151) used traditional crafts curriculum and instruction. Results for motor skill development, technical knowledge, and emotional engagement suggest that all students should receive a balanced curriculum of…

Intermediate level academically talented students learn essential elements of computer programming by working with robots at enrichment workshops at Dwight-Englewood School in Englewood, New Jersey. The children combine creative thinking and problem-solving skills to program the robots' microcomputers to perform a variety of movements. (JDD)

Several years ago, students at an Arizona middle school traded over $1.9 million in grocery receipts for 12 computers. School board provided another $70,000 to create a multimedia technology lab with 32 work stations and a focus on production and academic support. Kids use center to develop word-processing and computer drawing skills,…

George Washington Bush Middle School (Washington) is built to accommodate a design and technology program. Technology education and information resource areas are located centrally to a cluster of eight general classrooms. (MLF)

This handbook, which is one in a series of handbooks designed to help tech prep practitioners replicate successful materials/projects/programs developed by Partnership for Academic and Career Education (PACE) consortium members, explains how to develop a guide to area business speakers. Background information on the PACE consortium is presented.…

This teaching unit is designed to help students in grades 5 to 8 explore the concepts of functions and statistics in the context of the International Space Station (ISS). The units in the series have been developed to enhance and enrich mathematics, science, and technology education and to accommodate different teaching and learning styles. Each…

This unit for fourth grade and high school includes elements of careers, economics and free enterprise for fourth graders and elements of problem solving and design, manufacturing, drafting, and woodworking for high school students. The unit is taught in both the fourth grade and the high school classrooms. The unit involves planning, designing,…

This document contains the materials required for presenting an 8-day competency-based technology learning activity (TLA) designed to introduce students in grades 6-10 to advances and career opportunities in the field of robotics-control technology. The guide uses hands-on exploratory experiences into which activities to help students develop…

Design technology integrates problem solving with an awareness of the effects of technology on society and the environment. This book places problem solving in a realistic context and addresses situations that are meaningful to students. Design technology aims to develop confidence in problem solving and competence in using technology wisely. This…