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Modular Technology Education is a component of the middle school exploratory program that exposes sixth and eighth grade students to a variety of 21st century technologies and real world applications. The Modular Technology Education Center is designed as a multi-station technology lab, with students participating in clearly defined units of study that focus on a specific, technological theme and its applications. |
Video Production
Playing the parts of professional video script writers, directors, actors, producers, lighting/sound crew, and advertising copy writers, students learn a great deal in this module while having fun in the process. Besides expressing their creativity, student learn the techniques used in the filed to plan, produce and critique a formal video production. |
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Animation
Animation has come a long way since the early days of silent cartoons. Now, with computer animation software, artists can breathe life, action, sound, and color into imaginary characters and places. This module demonstrates what computers can do to create these colorful and vivid animations. |
Computer Graphic Design
Computer graphics have revolutionized the publishing industry. This module illustrates how artist are now using computers to produce many of the same high-quality graphics designs they once produced with pen, ink, and mechanical devices. |
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Controls and Sensors
The Controls and Sensors course teaches students how devices such as electronic doors and automatic lights function. Sensors gather data from the environment, and controls utilize the information to direct a machine response. Students build machine models and write software programs to direct their operation. |
Introduction to Technology
This module is essential for building students’ technological literacy, which includes understanding the nature of technology and the impact it has on students’ lives. Students learn how to appropriately use technological devices and processes, the steps involved in the design process, problem-solving strategies, the Technology Systems Model and Technological Developments. Technological literacy is a necessary foundation to ensure effective and meaningful learning throughout the technology-specific modules. With this foundation, students can better understand the significance of each technology discipline and to develop solid technical skills. |
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Plastics
To gain a better understanding of and appreciation for plastics, students first explore the history of plastics and their increasing use in manufacturing. They also discuss trends in the use of plastics and potential future applications, and learn the basic chemical compounds and various types of plastic. Hands-on experiences include producing objects with injection and vacuum molding machines. |
Radio Broadcasting
This module covers everything - communication technology, government regulations, the media business, advertising, drama, journalism, and more. The module gives students a real-life feel for the excitement and hard work involved in the popular field of radio broadcasting. |
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Web Design
Students learn about the history, rules and trends of the Internet and website design, perform searches and critique various web pages. They develop and practice website-design skills, including typography, digital photography, computer graphics, HTML programming, animation and interactive features. Students also plan and develop the foundation for an e-commerce website, and learn techniques for publishing and maintaining websites. |
Alternative Energy
Many of the environmental problems we face are a result of our dependency on fossil fuels. In this course, students examine clean, efficient, alternative sources of power. They discover the principles of solar, wind, biomass, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy. They discuss the difference between non-renewable and renewable energy sources and the importance of conserving energy. Students examine the environmental benefits and challenges of alternative energy sources, and the future of energy technology. |
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Meteorology and Forecasting
The Meteorology & Forecasting course offers hands-on activities that illustrate how weather patterns are recognized and how forecasts are developed. Students gain fundamental knowledge about weather and meteorology, and learn about instruments and computer-based tools that are used to predict the weather. They study the Earth’s atmosphere, pressure systems, weather fronts, and storm-tracking, and explore careers in weather-related fields. |
Exploring Mechanisms
What do the inclined plane, the lever, the wheel and axle, and the pulley have in common? They are the four simple machines that make everyday tasks easier. The Exploring Mechanisms course introduces the scientific concepts and components that make machines work. Students also learn about careers in mechanical systems, construction, and manufacturing, where they can expand and apply the knowledge gained throughout the course. |
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Digital Video Editing
In the Digital Video Editing module, students learn how digital videos are edited to create outtake-free presentations and how audio content is dubbed into videos. They also explore educational and career opportunities in the field of digital video editing. When a film or video is shot, industry practice is to record scenes in a random order to take advantage of particular circumstances. So, how does a group of randomly ordered scenes come together as a flowing presentation? |
Engineering & Stress Analysis
Building structures that are strong, safe, and long-lasting requires engineers to create designs that incorporate the theories of stress analysis. In this course, students examine the loads that are put on structures, the properties of different building materials, and the designs of different structural members. They apply what they’ve learned by designing and testing bridges in the stress analyzer. |
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