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Session #2002-1749

Creating Engineers For the Future

Dana De Geeter, Jenny E. Golder, Terri A. Nordin Iowa State University of Science and Technology

Abstract

As the demand for engineers continues to grow it is necessary to educate young students in technology and science related careers. This challenges educators to make engineering exciting and interesting. The following briefly details the implementation of a youth-development program that is committed to preparing the engineers of tomorrow. The non-profit organization For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST TM) has created FIRST TM LEGO® League to encourage and equip students ages nine to fourteen to pursue careers in engineering and technology fields. Through this program, FIRST TM hopes to develop the qualities of teamwork, cooperation, creativity, problem solving, sportsmanship, confidence, communication, and leadership in middle-school youth across the nation. The only roadblock in the proliferation of the program is the apprehension of schools and civic organizations to commit to the activity considering their involvements in a variety of other activities.

Since the start of this program at Ames Middle School, each of the seventeen participants has been successful in building the skills they need to become the engineers of the future. Participating on the FIRST TM LEGO League teams has helped these students develop problem solving skills, critical thinking skills, interpersonal skills, personal responsibility, time management, and creativity. Individuals have also gained a better understanding of engineering, as well as achieving new confidence levels, interests, and involvement in science and math. Many of these skills will be invaluable to the students regardless of what career path they take; however, the activities and experiences are enticing their appetites for engineering and technology, creating engineers for the future.

Introduction

As youth grow up in a technologically advanced society something happens in their development to steer them either toward or away from science and technology. Their exposure to and confidence with engineering and technology is that something that funnels students either into or out of this career path. The limited exposure to engineering and technology related content early on in education is limiting the number of students seeking out higher education in engineering fields.

According to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the United States is facing a predicament of increasing concern:

“Proceedings of the 2002 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright Ó 2002, American Society for Engineering Education”

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Nordin, T., & DeGeeter, D., & Golder, J. (2002, June), Creating Engineers For The Future Paper presented at 2002 Annual Conference, Montreal, Canada. 10.18260/1-2--10499