Introduction to Engineering and Design (IED) 2015 - 2016
DMACC EGT 400 (3 credits)
Greg Brcka
greg.brcka@ankenyschools.org
Northview 965-9700 x 1532
Southview 965- 9635 x 7222
Project Lead The Way (PLTW)
Project Lead The Way prepares students to be innovative and productive leaders in Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and to make meaningful, pioneering
contributions to our world. PLTW partners with middle schools and high schools to provide a
rigorous, relevant STEM education. Through an engaging, hands-on curriculum, PLTW encourages
the development of problem-solving skills, critical thinking, creative and innovative reasoning, and a
love of learning.
This curriculum is designed as a four-year high school sequence. Foundation courses (Introduction
to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, and Digital Electronics) are followed by a number
of electives to create eight rigorous, relevant, reality-based courses. Ankeny Community Schools
and DMACC have partnered together to offer these courses to you.
IED Course Description
Introduction to Engineering Design is the first course in the Project Lead the Way curriculum. The
major focus of the IED course is to expose students to the design process, research and analysis,
teamwork, communication methods, global and human impacts, engineering standards and
technical documentation. Students use 3-D solid modeling design software (Autodesk Inventor) to
help them design solutions to solve proposed problems and learn how to document their work and
communicate solutions to peers and members of the professional community.
Student Supplies Needed
1.An engineering notebook (This must have graph paper in it, and must be bound. The papers
may not be removable. You can obtain this at Staples, Wal-Mart, etc.)
2.A 4GB or higher flash drive for saving and sharing your design files
3.BLACK pens only for work in the engineering notebook, pencils, and erasers
4.Glue Sticks or Tape
College Credit for IED
IED is a rigorous college-level course where successful students will earn credit from DMACC
and also have the opportunity to earn credit from the University of Iowa or Iowa State University. To
earn credit from either UI or ISU, a student must score at least a “6” (out of 9) on the final summative
exam. You need to plan for substantial out-of-class work time (homework) to be successful.
Grading for IED
Your semester grade will be calculated based on two main categories: Process and Product.
Because you are learning about engineering and not yet an actual engineer, the process that you go
through counts just as much as the product that you create. Professional behavior is also expected
of you as an up-and-coming engineer, and therefore this will also be recorded in Infinite Campus.
PROCESS (50% weight)
PRODUCT (50% weight)
Professional Behaviors
Thorough documentation of projects and learning Projects and e-Portfolio
Prepared for class
in the Engineering Notebook, and Activity
On-time work completion
Presentations and Assessments
Worksheets.
In-class focus on work
* Semester Test is graded at 20% of the semester grade.
* No extra credit is given in this course.
* Assessment retakes are allowed with certain conditions.
*Timeliness is a standard of this course. Handing in assignments or projects after the due date will
affect your grade.
Professionalism
The field of engineering requires individuals to be professional and responsible. This includes
contributing to your team, using materials and tools properly, maintaining an organized workspace,
being prepared with all materials, and documenting your work in your engineer’s
notebook. Remember – this class is designed to help you learn about the field of engineering. One
thing that all engineers have in common, regardless of type, is that they are prepared, organized and
professional!
Cell phones, Ipods, etc.: We will use cell phones as tools in our class. Sometimes it will be needed
as a calculator, a camera or a calendar. These are legitimate uses of a cell phone. It may NOT be
used to text other students or parents during class or to check social media. If caught doing this I will
require that you turn in your cellphone/music device at the beginning of class and you may pick it up
as you leave. Music devices are not allowed. We communicate with each other often. Ear buds will
not be allowed to be worn during class except when authorized for an activity.
Tips for Success
When in doubt, ASK QUESTIONS! Ask me, your partner, your parents, an engineer, or look it up in
a book or online. If you find something interesting, share it with the rest of the class. IED is all about
teamwork and problem solving, but teamwork starts with individual drive and initiative. Take
responsibility for your education and make the most of your time in this class.
You’re always welcome to come to the lab to work as long as it doesn’t interfere with your other
classes OR the classes going on in the lab.
I can almost guarantee that at some point during this year you will feel frustrated, stumped,
disappointed, or just plain angry about a project or lesson. Don’t worry! It’s all part of the engineering
process and it will make your successes that much sweeter. If a problem has you stuck, take a break
and do something that you enjoy and find relaxing. Sometimes the best ideas will come to you when
you’re not stressing about it.
Welcome to Introduction to Engineering Design!
Let’s have a great year!
Greg Brcka