Transcript Engineering in the Classroom Series Part 1: Introduction

Introduction to the
Engineering Design Process
NASA Educator Professional
Development Project
The eight practices of science and engineering that the
Framework identifies as essential for all students to
learn, and describes in some detail, are listed below:
1. Asking questions (for science) and defining problems
(for engineering)
2. Developing and using models
3. Planning and carrying out investigations
4. Analyzing and interpreting data
5. Using mathematics and computational thinking
6. Constructing explanations (for science) and designing
solutions (for engineering)
7. Engaging in argument from evidence
8. Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information
“Scientists study the world as is it;
engineers create the world that never
has been.”
-Theodore von Karman
NASA / JPL Aerospace Engineer
Ask
• Determine what the problem is and what
constraints exist
– Materials
– Budget
– Time
Imagine
• Brainstorm possible solutions
• Everything on the table
Plan
• Take brainstormed ideas and apply the
constraints to narrow choices
• Come to consensus decision for first iteration
• Design a prototype to be tested and testing
method
– On paper only
– Nothing physical yet
Create
• Physical Build of Prototype
• Any Adjustments due to build difficulties need
to be reflected in the plan
• Not testing, just building
Experiment
• Test the Prototype following the planned
procedures
– Modifications to process must be reflected in
plans
• Collect Data
• Analyze and share with others
• No modifications to prototype during this
phase
Improve
• Make adjustments to the prototype based
upon results of testing phase
• Adjust plans accordingly
• Start the process over again
• This is where guiding questions may be helpful
Practical Application
• Cycle steps should be followed rigidly initially
• Over time they will blend into a continuum
• The process may be used to solve problems
beyond engineering
How can you use it?
NASA’s Engineering Design Process
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/best/edp.html
NASA's BEST -- Activity Guides
NASA's BEST activities focus on teaching the engineering design process.
Each activity features objectives, a list of materials, educator information,
procedures and student worksheets. All activities are intended for student teams.
Audience: Educators
Grade Level: K-8
Engineering EG K-2
Engineering EG 3-5
Engineering EG 6-8
Technology Demonstration Missions EG 5-8