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Information • Middle School • High School
Course Descriptions • Essential Curriculum
High School
In a society that is dependent upon technology, it is important that all students develop technological literacy. The recent development of the national Standards for Technological Literacy have defined a body of knowledge for the study of technology. This body of knowledge includes the study of topics in The Nature of Technology, Technology and Society, Design, Abilities for a Technological World, and The Designed World. In order to meet or exceed these standards along with the Maryland state outcomes for Technology Education, Howard County offers a comprehensive program in Technology Education.
Beginning with Technology Systems, students will use a hands-on, design and problem-solving approach to study biotechnology, communications, construction, manufacturing, power and energy, and transportation. Next, students may choose from a variety of specialized courses that allow more in-depth study of the topics listed in Technology Systems. Finally, students may heighten their technological literacy by conducting research within an area of technology.
Some of the courses listed below will satisfy the one-credit Technology Education high school graduation requirement. Certain combinations of these courses will also satisfy the Advanced Technology credit option for graduation.
Technology Systems
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
(Technology Education Credit)
6750 |
1 credit |
This course emphasizes the application of knowledge, tools, and skills to solve technological problems. Students will solve problems in areas such as biotechnology, communication, construction, manufacturing, power and energy, and transportation. In solving these problems, students will utilize knowledge and skills from mathematics, science, social studies, language arts, health, and physical fitness. Topics may include biomechanics, digital photography, structural design, line production, electromagnetism, and aerodynamics. Students will use tools, machines, and various materials to develop and produce models and devices that creatively demonstrate solutions to problems in the above topics. It is recommended, but not required, that students take this course prior to other Technology Education courses.
Materials and Processes Technology
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Technology Systems
6756 |
1 credit |
This course is for students interested in exploring areas of production technology,
manufacturing technology, construction technology, and engineering. Students
will gain a basic understanding of materials and manufacturing processes.
A
study of materials technology and manufacturing processes will provide students
with the knowledge required to complete a variety of activities and projects.
The
hands-on nature of this course will include training in machine and tool
operation and safety. The nature of the course will be project-oriented where
students will work individually and in teams to design and construct products
using a variety of materials, such as woods, plastics, metals, and ceramics.
Production Technology
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Materials and Processes Technology
6755 |
1 credit |
This course is for students interested in exploring advanced areas of manufacturing technology. Students will learn and experience the processes necessary to develop and produce a manufactured item. Topics may include marketing, cost analysis, layout and measrement, CAD, jig and fixture design, facility planning, line production, quality control, and packaging. Students will use tools, machines, and various materials to develop marketable products while simulating a manufacturing enterprise.
Mechanical Drawing
Grades 10, 11, 12
6800 |
1 credit |
This course is for students interested in architectural design and/or engineering design. Students will develop freehand sketches, two-dimensional drawings, pictorial drawings, and CAD-based drawings. Topics may include care and use of drawing instruments, measurement, dimensions, multiview drawings, section drawings, surface developments, technical illustrations, and architectural designs.
Architectural Design
Grades 11, 12
6810 |
1 credit |
This course is for students interested in architectural design. Students will study various design problems from topics in architectural history to contemporary residential and commercial architecture. Topics may include care and use of drawing instruments, measurement, dimensions, professional sketches, working drawings (plot plans, foundation plans, floor plans, electrical plans, sections, and elevations), presentation drawings, CAD drawings, and modeling.
Engineering Design
Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Mechanical Drawing or Architectural Drawing
(Certificate of Merit Course)
684M |
1 credit |
This course is for students interested in various engineering fields, such as mechanical, electrical, civil, and aerospace. Topics may include simple and complex machines, electricity and electronics, structural design and analysis, and thermodynamics. Students will solve complex engineering problems through mechanical drawing and prototype construction and testing in a multi-sensory laboratory setting.
Technology Education - Site Based Experience
This course is part of the Career and Technology Education Program (CTE) sequence. Placements are arranged on an individual basis and are supervised by a Work Experience Coordinator. Enrollment requires teacher approval.
Technology Research I, II, III
The technology concentration provides highly able students with opportunities to research technological problems. Students will develop and produce an original product and any necessary testing devices for their topic using a variety of appropriate technologies. Students may investigate topics in biotechnology, communication, construction, manufacturing, power and energy, transportation, and software development. Instruction will focus on laboratory safety, methods of research and experimentation, statistical analysis, technical reports, and oral presentations using technologies such as multimedia, web pages, and other design elements.
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