Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
1.0 credit

Co-requisite: Algebra 1

College Credit Eligibility: Conditional on University of New Haven/PLTW Affiliate University required achievement on end of course examination and course grade.

This course emphasizes the development of design and communication. Students study the design concepts of form and function; then, use state-of-the-art technology to translate conceptual design into reproducible products. During introduction to engineering design student learning will culminate in students completing an innovation project. Introduction to Engineering Design is a course that teaches problem solving skills utilizing the design-development process. Effective team work is central to project based assignments. Models of products are created, analyzed, evaluated, and communicated using solid modeling computer design software. Students will also be introduced to how product design interfaces with business, marketing, manufacturing, and operations. Students can design a wide range of products from children toys to prosthetics and biomedical devices. Students will maintain a design portfolio throughout the course.

Cheyenne Bermudez, a previous Intro to Engineering Design student, hopes to incorporate her love of soccer into a design career. “You could make sports cleats or a better soccer ball that’s more efficient on the field using computer software like we do in class,” she said.

Chris Woosley designed and printed a glow-in-the-dark light switch plate and a cell phone case. “I think it’s cool to be able to take something from a computer and be able to print it and hold it,” said Chris, who will attend the University of New Haven.