Technology Modules on the World-Wide Web

Suny At Buffalo, Amherst NY

Investigators

Abstract

9911569 SHAW "Technology Modules on the World-Wide-Web" is a collaboration between engineering and technology education faculty members from two SUNY campuses, to design and develop six Technology Education modules for grades 11 and 12. The modules are accessible through the world-wide web, but also via CD-ROM. Topics are Principles of Engineering; Product Development and Automation; Energy and the Environment; Communication and Information Technology; Transportation; and System Integration and Society. The modules allow computer-assisted simulation, and are meant to supplement the more typical hands-on activities of technology teachers. The primary pedagogic strategy is case-based learning, each case involving a real-world technology situation, such as retro-fitting the lighting system of a house to make it more energy efficient. Manuals are prepared to guide teachers through cases. National pilot field test sites are integral to the evaluation. The project draws upon materials previously developed in the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program in areas such as information systems, and semi-conductor manufacturing. The materials resonate with the emerging national Standards for Technology Education now being finalized by the International Technology Education Association (ITEA); and relate directly to technology education content and learning standards of New York's Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) curriculum, and to Project 2061 benchmarks.