Intro to Engineering for Elementary Educators

EiE’s three-part online professional development series introduces elementary educators to the concepts of engineering and technology and prepares educators to facilitate EiE unit(s) with their students. Each 90-minute session is facilitated by an experienced EiE PD provider, and participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their learning in corresponding 30-45 minute follow-up activities. This interactive online learning experience engages participants through web-based discussions, classroom videos, and personal reflection. Educators will receive an EiE Teacher Guide of their choice along with a certificate of completion.

Session 1: What is Technology? What is Engineering?

Saturday, February 17 11:00am - 12:30pm EST

Participants will engage in activities and discussion regarding the similarities and differences between technology and engineering.

Session 2: Engineering in the Elementary Classroom

Saturday, February 24 11:00am - 12:30pm EST

Participants will be introduced to EiE’s five-step Engineering Design Process and unique unit structure.

Session 3: Preparing for Implementation

Saturday, March 3 11:00am-12:30pm EST

Participants will discuss considerations for classroom implementation of a problem-based curriculum such as materials management, student and teacher perceptions of failure, and fostering critical thinking and communication skills.

Total Professional Development: 8 hours

What do you need to participate in this professional development?

1. Webcam: Make sure that you are using a device with a camera – this is an interactive event and we want everyone to be able to see each other! You can use an external webcam or the one built into your computer (most laptops have them, and some desktops as well).

2. Headphones and Microphone: Be sure to have a headset so that you can hear the presenters and contribute to the conversation! We typically use earbuds with an attached microphone, but you can use an over-ear headset as well. Many computers also have speakers and a microphone built in, but we ask that you avoid using this option if possible as it can produce a lot of distracting background noise.

3. Google or Gmail Account: The follow-up activities will require posting to a Google Group discussion forum. You will need a Google or Gmail account to access this group and participate in the follow-up activities. If you do not already have an account, you can sign up for one for free.