Introduction to Engineering Design is a high school engineering course in the PLTW Engineering Program. In Introduction to Engineering Design, students explore engineering tools and apply a common approach to the solution of engineering problems, an engineering design process. Utilizing the activity-project-problem-based (APB) teaching and learning pedagogy, students progress from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that require them to plan, document, communicate and develop other professional skills.

Through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects and problems, students apply systems thinking and consider various aspects of engineering design, including material selection, human-centered design, manufacturability, assemblability and sustainability. Students develop skills in technical representation and documentation, especially through 3D computer modeling using a Computer Aided Design (CAD) application. As part of the design process, students produce precise 3D-printed engineering prototypes using an additive manufacturing process. Student-developed testing protocols drive decision-making and iterative design improvements.

Semester-long course

Principles of Engineering is designed to be a high school student’s second exposure to the PLTW Engineering program and is appropriate for students in grades 9-12. In Principles of Engineering, students explore a broad range of engineering disciplines and careers and design and solve real-world engineering problems.

This course introduces students to engineering concepts that are applicable to a variety of engineering disciplines and empowers them to develop technical skills through the use of engineering tools such as 3D modeling software, hands-on prototyping equipment, programming software and robotics hardware to bring their solutions to life. Students apply the engineering design process to solve real-world problems across a breadth of engineering fields such as mechanical, robotics, infrastructure, environmental sustainability and product design and development.

Using PLTW’s activity-project-problem-based (APB) instructional approach, students advance from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that provide opportunities to develop planning and technical documentation skills, as well as in-demand, transportable skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, communication and ethical reasoning. The last is particularly important as the course encourages students to consider the impacts of engineering decisions.

Semester-long course
Prerequisite: PLTW: Introduction to Engineering

Students enrolled in this academic course will provide assistance to those participating in the Innovation Lab or related programs/activities under the direct guidance and evaluation of the learning and innovation specialist. The student will assist in small and large group settings for students, teachers and community members during the academic day. This may include periodic attendance during non-class hours, such as after school or otherwise, after academic hours to co-facilitate tours and training. The student will learn to manage and process requests for lab equipment, assist with facilitating learning in the lab and solve technical equipment issues. Throughout this year-long program, the student will routinely meet with and be evaluated by the learning and innovation specialist.

Semester-long course
Prerequisite: Design Thinking and Innovation with administration recommendation.