Tools and technology refers to the technical equipment and computer applications that support engineering activities and can include measuring tools, physical prototyping equipment, laboratory equipment, computer modeling and simulation software, data analysis tools, system design tools, and computational environments.
An engineering literate high school student...
is familiar with and has used a wide variety of engineering-related tools and technology. They can select and use appropriate tools and technology to support engineering work in all phases of a design process.
How does PLTW Engineering address Tools and Technology?
Each PLTW Engineering course requires students to use multiple cross-discipline engineering tools and technology, such as spreadsheet applications and measuring devices. In addition, students use a wide variety of discipline-specific technology, as appropriate for the content. Examples include 3D printers, mechanical prototyping equipment, computer-aided design (CAD) software, breadboards, coding environments, microprocessors, circuit design software, surveying equipment, Geographic Information System (GIS), robotics, and flight simulation software, to name a few.
The Project Lead The Way Engineering Pathway provides an array of learning experiences designed
to help students develop an engineering skillset and cultivate an engineering
mindset.
Each PLTW Engineering course Framework is built on the Fundamentals of PLTW
Engineering—a set of research-based core dimensions and supporting big concepts that provide the
foundation for effective engineering education. In each Engineering course, students are
challenged with engaging real-world engineering experiences that simultaneously build knowledge,
skills, and practices across the core dimensions. No matter what career a student chooses, PLTW
Engineering promotes life-long learning habits and sets students up for success.
PLTW Engineering is built on four fundamental dimensions critical to effective engineering education — problem solving and creativity, engineering knowledge and applications, professional practices, and career learning. These fundamental dimensions are represented on the inner ring. Click on each of the four dimensions to learn more.
Each dimension includes multiple big concepts, represented in the outer ring. The big concepts connect to significant and relevant national content standards and are learning targets for PLTW Engineering courses. The extent of exposure to each big concept (for example, systems thinking or collaboration) varies among courses. Big concepts are directly aligned to learning objectives, foundational knowledge, and skills listed in the course Framework, and they are critical to building engineering literacy. Click on each of the big concepts to learn more.
Rotate Wheel
Engineering Knowledge and Applications
Systems Thinking
Computational Thinking
Engineering Design and Applications
Modeling
Engineering Math and Science
Tools and Technology
Career Learning
Awareness
Exploration
Planning
Engineering Mindset
Design Process
Experimental Design
Professional Practices
Project Management
Collaboration
Communication
Professionalism and Ethics
Problem Solving and Creativity
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