Technology & Engineering Innovator is an engaging, hands-on STEM course designed to introduce elementary students to the exciting world of engineering, machines, energy, motion, and problem-solving. Through building and experimenting with physical models, students learn how everyday technologies work while developing creativity, critical thinking, persistence, and engineering-design skills.

 

Students will explore how energy makes things move, how simple machines make work easier, and how engineers use design, testing, observation, and improvement to solve problems. Rather than simply following instructions, students will be encouraged to ask questions, make predictions, test ideas, identify problems, and modify their designs.

 

Throughout the course, students will build and investigate a variety of mechanical and technology-based models inspired by real-world systems, including:

• Windmills and fans — investigating wind, air movement, and energy transfer

• ​Bionic and mechanical robots — exploring movement, mechanisms, and design

• Cars and moving machines — exploring wheels, axles, friction, and propulsion

• Solar-powered vehicles — exploring sunlight, energy conversion, and motion

• Generators and pumps — introducing energy transfer and mechanical systems

• Washing machines and other household machines — discovering the technology behind familiar everyday objects

 

The course emphasizes learning by doing. Students will spend more time building, experimenting, observing, and creating.  Each project becomes a starting point for investigation.