ERIC Number: EJ728652
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2005-Jan
Pages: 4
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1062-9351
EISSN: N/A
Design Software Gives Rocketry a Boost in the Classroom
Wilson, Spencer C.
Tech Directions, v64 n6 p17-20 Jan 2005
Building and launching model rockets makes a great activity for a technology education class. A model rocket curriculum provides a valuable tool for improving students' technical skills that includes, but is not limited to, following technical instructions and procedures while learning about aerospace technology. This article describes a way that teachers can make model rocketry more challenging and rewarding for their students, in addition to maximizing the activity's educational value. RockSim, a rocket design and simulation software available from Apogee Components, takes students through an engineering process in which they design their own rockets and perform flight simulations. They can then use the software to print out templates, parts lists and detailed drawings for use in constructing model rockets from their designs. RockSim is not a replacement for the design phase of generating ideas, determining configurations, sizes and appearance, but it is a valuable tool that aids the design process.
Descriptors: Space Sciences, Educational Technology, Aviation Mechanics, Aerospace Education, Computer Software, Science Education, Computer Simulation
Prakken Publications, 832 Phoenix Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48108. Tel: 734-975-2800; Fax: 734-975-2787; Web site: http://www.techdirections.com/.
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A