STEM Education Notes - Engineering Overview
Department of Education STEM Education
STEM Students’ Resource Book
Grades 11 Term 1 Bridging Course
Science Technology ENGINEERING Mathematics
Issued by Department of Education
Year: 2021
Copyright: © Copyright 2021, Department of Education, Papua New Guinea. All rights reserved.
Reproduction Restrictions: No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of the publisher.
ISBN: To be issued.
Acknowledgements
Publisher: Ultima Thulë Ltd engaged by the Department of Education to develop the STEM Curriculum.
Content Developers: Writers from universities, secondary schools, and industry experts.
Contributors: Quality assurance groups and Science Subject Advisory Committee.
Support Provided By: General Education Services Division of the Department of Education.
Table of Contents
Skills Build-up
Computer and Technology Knowledge
MODULE 11:1 INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING
Topic 1: Introduction to Engineering
Topic 2: Application of Engineering in Society
Topic 3: Ethics in Engineering
MODULE 11.2: INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN PROCESS
MODULE 11.3: INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DISCIPLINES
References
Workshop and Laboratory Rules
Appropriate Workshop Conduct
Follow teacher's instructions carefully.
Avoid running to prevent accidents.
Know the locations of emergency stop buttons.
Wear the correct protective equipment for tools in use.
Always wear an apron for safety.
Use safety boots; training shoes are unsuitable.
Keep the workshop clean and free of bags or tripping hazards.
Ask questions if unsure about machine operation.
Avoid rushing; always be patient.
Report any damage to equipment immediately.
Appropriate Computer Laboratory Conduct
Show respect to equipment and each other.
Enter and work quietly, acknowledging shared facility.
Browse assigned websites only to ensure safety.
Do not alter settings without permission.
Report hardware issues to the teacher.
Save unfinished work under your name and class.
Keep personal devices silenced and secure.
MODULE 11:1 INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING
Duration: 2 Weeks
Definition: Engineering is the application of scientific principles to design and construct machines and structures, including bridges, roads, and buildings.
Overview of Engineering: The module will present engineering concepts and highlight its disciplines to captivate interest in students, emphasizing historical feats of engineering (e.g., Eiffel Tower, Great Wall of China).
Ethics in Engineering: Engineers are guided by a code of ethics and regulated standards, impacting public health, safety, and welfare.
Topic 1: Introduction to Engineering
1.1 What is Engineering?
Engineering is the systematic application of scientific principles to design and build machines and infrastructures.
1.2 What do Engineers do?
Engineers innovate and improve products/services for better living. They apply physical, chemical laws, and mathematics to design diverse products, considering cost, efficiency, and safety.
Example Products: Vehicles, buildings, tools, surgical equipment, telecommunication devices, etc.
1.3 Importance of Studying Engineering
Offers exposure to technical subjects, enhancing transferable skills like problem-solving and project management vital in a technological environment.
Engineering significantly impacts quality of life, governed by honesty and fairness.
1.4 Common Traits of Good Engineers
Problem Solvers: Capable of learning and applying engineering principles.
Lifelong Learners: Continuous education to adapt to innovations.
Interpersonal Skills: Essential for teamwork and effective communication.
Time Management: Essential for productivity in project environments.
1.5 Engineering Design Process
Steps:
Recognize the need for a product/service.
Define the problem comprehensively.
Conduct preliminary research.
Generate ideas for possible solutions.
Synthesize findings.
Evaluate potential ideas.
Optimize solutions.
Present the final solution.
1.6 Factors Influencing Engineering Design Process
Economic Factors: Design must align with cost-effectiveness.
Material Selection: Correct material choice is crucial based on application needs.
Teamwork: Collaboration in a diverse team ensures comprehensive problem solving.
Activity: Research on Engineering
Form groups of five, research essential engineering definitions, importance, and the design processes.
1.7 Disciplines of Engineering
Civil Engineering: Infrastructure and services design.
Electronics and Electrical Engineering: Equipment and systems using electricity.
Mechanical Engineering: Machines and power-generating devices.
Topic 2: Application of Engineering in Society
2.1 Applications of Engineering in Various Sectors
Agriculture: Design of machinery and systems to enhance production efficiency.
Automotive: Focus on various operational aspects like safety, fuel efficiency, and vehicle performance.
Health Sector: Improves diagnostics/treatment via technology.
Infrastructure: Systems for transport and utilities.
Maritime: Engineering challenges in offshore structures.
Topic 3: Ethics in Engineering
3.1 Engineering Ethics
Defined as guiding principles governing engineers' behaviors and decisions.
3.2 Conduct of Engineers
Affirm public health and safety as paramount.
Deliver services only in areas of competence.
3.4 Code of Ethics Practices in PNG
Responsibilities to protect life, sustainable resource use, and community contribution.
3.5 Solving Ethical Dilemmas
Recognizing conflicts in moral reasoning and finding solutions through clear, informed judgments.
Case Studies Related to Ethics
Practical examples such as failures against safety standards and professional conduct can inform decision-making processes.
MODULE 11.2: INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN PROCESS
Duration: 3 Weeks
Focuses on the Engineering Design Process (EDP) and usage of CAD Software.
Topic 1: Introduction to Engineering Design Process
1.1 Engineering Design Process Overview
Sequence includes recognizing needs, defining problems, conducting research, conceptualizing solutions, synthesizing findings, evaluating, optimizing, and presenting outcomes.
Activity: Exploring Engineering Design Process
Groups identify practical problems and apply the EDP to deliver engineering solutions.
Topic 2: Use of Computer-Aided Design Software in Engineering
2.1 CAD Software Overview
Definition: Use of computer systems to assist in the creation and modification of design work.
Types of CAD Software
MATLAB: Computational and visualization software for mathematical operations.
AutoCAD: Fundamental design tool for 2D and 3D modeling.
MODULE 11.3: INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DISCIPLINES
Duration: 3 Weeks
Exploring main disciplines including Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering and their sub-disciplines.
Topic 1: Civil Engineering
1.1 Civil Engineering Functions
Addresses the design and construction of public infrastructure systems.
1.2 Sub-disciplines of Civil Engineering
Includes fields like Structural, Environmental, Geotechnical, Coastal, Hydraulic and Transportation Engineering.
Topic 2: Electrical Engineering
2.1 Core Responsibilities in Electrical Engineering
Covering design and application of systems utilizing electricity.
2.2 Sub-disciplines of Electrical Engineering
Includes Power, Systems, Computer, and Communications Engineering.
Topic 3: Mechanical Engineering
3.1 Mechanical Engineering Overview
The design, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems.
3.2 Sub-disciplines of Mechanical Engineering
Covers Acoustical, Manufacturing, Thermal and Vehicle Engineering.
Conclusion
Students should conduct their own research, understand various engineering applications, and participate in discussions to solidify their understanding of concepts from modules.