Engineering in Science: Practice 1. Asking questions and defining problems

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STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) is a hot topic in education lately. With the publishing of the Next Generation Science Standards, engineering has been brought to the forefront in science education with the adoption of Dimension 1, Practices of Science and Engineering. Topics, resource links and discussion of curricular strands related to engineering are emphasized in this blog. You may access these elements from the blog archive on the right. The Science Framework and Next Generation Science Standards are key to this process. I have embedded them in this blog and you may also follow links in the right side bar to find the original documents they refer to.

Friday, April 5, 2013

Practice 1. Asking questions and defining problems

Please ask questions! Every science teacher wants to get their students to do so. How do we integrate problem solving with quality question asking. Is it solvable? Will the answer solve our problem? Can we answer it?

"Engineering begins with a problem that needs to be solved, such as “How can we reduce the nation’s dependence on fossil fuels? or “What can be done to reduce a particular disease? or “How can we improve the fuel efficiency of automobiles? A basic practice of engineers is to ask questions to clarify the problem, determine criteria for a successful solution, and identify constraints."

-Understanding A Framework for K-12 Science Education, Bybee 2011

Video on asking questions

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Curricular Strand

The Curricular Strand was chosen for the purpose of fulfilling a need in the science department to fulfill a gap looking at the Science Framework and connections to the technical school within our academic courses.

In "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" and the "Next Generation Science Standards" Dimension 1 is Scientific and Engineering Practices. This lays the foundation for all the science framework and has been overlooked in our school in the science department. The freshman year is a key area where engineering focus could be integrated.

The purpose of this resource blog is to facilitate the strengthening of this dimension in our school.

NETS Teacher Standards

1. Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity

d. Model collaborative knowledge construction by engaging in learning with students, colleagues, and others in face-to-face and virtual environments

This Blog seks to inspire learning and creativity through science and engineering. This is a key concept of engaging students and teachers in this new curriculum strand. The virtual dialog available here may augment the traditional department meeting.

3. Model Digital Age Work and Learning

d. Model and facilitate effective use of current and emerging digital tools to locate, analyze, evaluate, and use information resources to support research and learning.

These information resources are key to digital age work and learning. Teaching was changed forever with the inception of the internet and online resources. This concept is not with out dilema, what is a good source and how do we know items that will not fit within this framework? Sorting by practice and then submitting them for peer review will support new learning and better practice.