Real-World Modeling of the Engineering Process
Video-Based Learning Module
As you watch the skill video below, think about these questions:
- How does the engineer model using the engineering design process to solve a problem?
- What do you notice about youth when interacting with the engineers regarding their designs?
- How does an experience like this give youth a realistic picture of what engineers do?
Now that you’ve watched the video, reflect on what you saw.
- Although you might not have access to real engineers, what other ways could you introduce youth to real-world applications of the engineering design process?
- What practices in the engineering design process are modeled in this video?
Explore Engineering Practices
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Building Relationships for STEM Learning
Watch as Jennifer uses strategies to support and encourage youth when working on an engineering design challenge. Listen as Jennifer shares an important element to group management involving building relationships around STEM learning based on mutual respect and support.
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Designing Enrichment Toys for Zoo Animals
Engineers design solutions to specific, real-world problems. Sometimes these solutions involve a specific client or need. Here, youth design a toy to engage a particular zoo animal in play.
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Like A Real Engineer!
What happens when youth challenge a group of engineers to complete the STEM activity they did in their program? Listen as the engineers go through the same problem solving steps and align real-world engineering strategies to the challenge they have in building and designing vehicles.