Industrial technology education programs prepare students for careers and higher education within manufacturing technology, engineering and design, construction technology, transportation technology and communication. Students are provided technical knowledge that emphasizes high standards and quality experiences in leadership, teamwork, citizenship and character development.
Vision and Mission
Industrial technology programs will offer Programs of Study, aligned with industry standards. Beginning with a broad-based industry-focused career exploration course at the secondary level, programs will continue with a coherent sequence of courses within a career cluster through postsecondary education. Student attainment of proficiency will be measured through assessments aligned with industry standards, and providing students with industry certification(s).
The Iowa Department of Education will provide technical assistance and resources to assist schools and colleges in accomplishing the stated vision.
Standards
Applied Science, Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing Pilot Standards
Professional Organizations
Association of Career and Technical Education
Iowa Association of Career and Technical Education
Project Lead the Way (PLTW) has developed a four year sequence of courses which, when combined with college preparatory mathematics and science courses in high school, introduces students to the scope, rigor, and discipline of engineering and engineering technology prior to entering college.
Project Lead the Way - Pathway to Engineering
Courses include:
- Introduction to Engineering Design
- Digital Electronics
- Principles of Engineering
- Computer Integrated Manufacturing
- Civil Engineering and Architecture
- Biotechnical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Engineering Design and Development
The curriculum teachers are required to teach utilizes cutting edge technology and software requiring specialized training. Ongoing training supports the teachers as they implement the program and provides for continuous improvement of skills.
Understanding that another key to success is awareness, PLTW makes a concerted effort to inform school counselors through counselor conferences, brochures, and videotapes about the benefits of the program, as well as the wide array of technology jobs and careers available to students who enter the field upon graduation from high school and college.
In addition, PLTW has developed an exciting Middle School Technology Curriculum: Gateway To Technology. This project-based, cutting edge curriculum is 40 weeks in length and is divided into four 10-week units from the following: Design and Modeling; The Magic of Electrons; The Science of Technology; Automation and Robotics; three new units in development: Environmental Engineering, Energy and the Environment, and Aerospace Engineering. Designed for all students, the units address national standards in math, science and technology. One of the goals is to increase interest and awareness of female and minority students in technology and related careers. Gateway To Technology will also encourage increasing numbers of students to elect the high school program.
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