Engineering
Intro to Engineering Design
Designed for students interested in pursuing an Engineering Career. IED is recommended as the first course for the PLTW Engineering program. The major focus of IED is the design process and its application. Students use industry standard 3D modeling software, AutoDesk Inventor, to help design solutions to solve problems, document their work using an engineer’s notebook, and communicate their solutions orally and in writing. Students are also exposed to research and analysis, teamwork, communication methods, global and human impacts, engineering standards, and technical documentation.
Grade Level: 9-12
Graduation Credit: CTE, Applied Arts
CSU/UC: Electives(g)
CTE Pathway: Engineering & Tech
CTE Course Level: Introduction
Principles of Engineering
This course of engineering exposes students to some of the major concepts they will encounter in a postsecondary engineering course of study. Topics include mechanisms, energy, statics, materials, and kinematics. Students develop problem-solving skills and apply their knowledge of research and design to create solutions to various mechanical challenges. They document their work and communicate their solutions.
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) is recommended but not required.
Grade Level: 9-12
Graduation Credit: CTE, Applied Arts
CSU/UC: Electives(g)
CTE Pathway: Engineering & Tech
CTE Course Level: Concentrator
Digital Electronics
Digital Electronics is the study of electronic circuits that are used to process and control digital signals. In contrast to analog electronics, where a continuously varying voltage represents information, two discrete voltages or logic levels represent digital signals. This distinction allows for greater signal speed and storage capabilities and has revolutionized the world of electronics. Digital electronics is the foundation of all modern electronic devices such as cellular phones, MP3 players, laptop computers, digital cameras, and high definition television. The major focus of the DE course is to expose students to the design process of combinational and sequential logic
design, teamwork, communication methods, engineering standards, and technical documentation.
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) is recommended but not required.
Grade Level: 9-12
Graduation Credit: CTE, Applied Arts
CSU/UC: Electives(g)
CTE Pathway: Engineering & Tech
CTE Course Level: Concentrator
Engineering Design & Development
This capstone course allows students to design a solution to a technical problem of their choosing. They have the chance to design solutions to problems in our world. This is an engineering research course in which students will work in teams to research, design, test, and construct a solution to an open-ended engineering problem. The team presents and defends their solution to a panel of outside reviewers at the conclusion of the course. The EDD course allows students to apply all the skills and knowledge learned in previous Project Lead the Way courses. The use of 3D design software helps students design solutions to the problem their team has chosen. This course also engages students in time management and teamwork skills, a valuable skill set for students in the future.
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) is recommended but not required.
Grade Level: 12
Graduation Credit: Applied Arts
CSU/UC: Electives(g)
CTE Pathway: Engineering & Tech
CTE Course Level: Capstone