Program forges “new generation of engineers” via area schools’ partnership with Kirkwood
–by Lisa Folken, Kirkwood Jones County Center
Think back to when you were in school. What stuck with you? There were probably just a handful of classes that were relevant and stirred your interest beyond the classroom. It makes sense that the more we link coursework to real life, the more likely students are to retain and use what they learn in school. We know that 21st century employers are seeking more workers with strong science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (called STEM) backgrounds.
With more than one-half of the country’s engineers and scientists nearing retirement, the US alone needs more than one million engineers and technical workers. In October 2008, the Iowa Workforce Development listed 747 engineering positions available in Iowa alone.
In response to this demand, schools must prepare students in STEM-related fields, and raise achievement rates in math and science. Project Lead the Way (PLTW®) is a national, non-profit organization established to help schools give students the knowledge they need to excel in high-tech fields. PLTW’s classroom immerses students in meaningful, hands-on experience in problem-solving, teamwork, and project-based learning. They can also earn college credit in this academy.
We know what doctors do, but what does an engineer do, and how do we get kids excited about it? First, let’s throw out the stereotypes. The days of the pocket-protector-wearing engineer are over. In fact, you will rarely see an engineer in a suit, and communication skills are just as important as math skills. The problem is that few students understand what engineers really do, which makes the field less appealing. There’s also a misperception that engineers are generally men. This is absolutely untrue, and we’d love to fill half of our seats with girls. This is your chance to check it out, again, “try it before you buy it” to see if it’s for you. What have you got to lose?
How it works? Our partnership with eight area high schools allows students to spend three hours of every school day at the new state-of-the art Jones Regional Education Center, opening in August. Kirkwood piloted this program in Jones County this year at Anamosa High School and it has been well received.
Here’s what some early observers have to say:
“PLTW will cause some students to realize that, “Hey, I can do this!This is what I want to do. And others to realize that engineering may not be for them and to begin to pursue a different path. Either way, it’s information they wouldn’t otherwise have as they try to make decisions about their futures.” – Dan Kiley, PLTW Instructor, Anamosa High School
“The strength of Project Lead the Way lies not only in the exceptional curriculum that prepares students for rigorous postsecondary studies in science, technology and math. It also opens their imaginations to the extra opportunities it affords them. Students are eligible for internships, scholarships and all receive college credit through Kirkwood for their work.” –Jason T. Taylor, Math/Science Faculty, Kirkwood Community College
“Project Lead the Way Introduction to Engineering Design was a great experience for me. I had a lot of fun doing the different activities and projects and being able to earn college credit while still in high school. I would encourage other people to take this class even if they aren’t thinking about being an engineer, as you can use what you learn in other classes…. I would especially encourage girls to take the class. I was only one of two girls in my class and it helped me realize what it would be like if there were only a few women in the workplace. I believe that engineering is not a “men’s only” profession and this class would help girls realize that they can do whatever they want if they put their mind to it.”–Jackie Russ, sophomore, Anamosa High School
For more information, or to see if you are eligible, contact your high school guidance office first. Then call me with any questions at the Kirkwood Monticello Center (465-5988), check out the Web site at www.kirkwood.edu/earncredit , or e-mail me at lfolken@kirkwood.edu for further information.
Pre-registration for all of Kirkwood’s Career Academies is due by March 1.