basic approach used in each wasdiscovery through actual construction and experimental testing, field data collection, observingand recording, computer simulations, synthesizing, generalizations, and reflection on classroomintegration. A brief description of the projects follows. “Monitoring Precast-Prestressed Concrete Deck Panels on a Steel Girder Bridge”: Thepurpose of the project was to evaluate methods for reducing the “down time” for bridgeconstruction. Precast concrete elements offer a solution. The problem is that over a long periodof time, the concrete changes shape due to temperature, stress, creep, and shrinkage. These Page
[43, 47]: Page 11.288.10• Long term effort,• Technical assistance, as well as support networks,• Collegial atmosphere in which teachers share views and experiences,• Opportunities for reflection on one’s own practice,• Focus on teaching for understanding through personal learning experiences, and• Professional development grounded in classroom practice.The teaching of science should be centered on inquiry-based strategies that incorporate thesolution of real world problems. The integrative nature of science and engineering lies in thefact that engineering and design also provides a systematic approach to problem solving in a realworld