I currently have fifty students who have enrolled in my Introduction to Engineering and Advanced Engineering courses. Some of these students came into the course knowing that they are destined to study engineering in college. Most signed up because they have a knack for designing or constructing things.
Many of my students are first or second generation immigrants from around the world.
Many of them come from low-income families. Before taking my class, engineering was just an idea. Through my course, I hope to inspire students to consider joining the ranks of America's next generation of engineers.
My Project
I recently took my own children to see a newly released IMAX film entitled "Dream Big". It was one of the most inspirational films I have seen that promotes engineering as a way to better our world. As a teacher of engineering in an urban high school serving a range of students that included English Language Learners, Special Education Students, Gifted and Talented Students, I feel that it is imperative for them to have access to this film and the resources that the Museum of Science has to offer to supplement the film. With nearly 50% of students at my school eligible for free or reduced lunch, the cost of this experience would be beyond the reach of most families. Funding this project would allow students, regardless of financial circumstance, to participate in this game-changing experience.
America's future depends on an expanded and diversified pool of future engineers to meet the ever-changing needs of the future.
The students in my classroom represent the range of what is needed to ensure that we have enough engineers moving into the 21st century.
Some students in my engineering courses were clearly destined to study engineering in college. Many more of them are on the fence as to whether engineering might be a good fit for them. I believe that experiencing this film and the engineering-related exhibits and experiences at the museum may be just the little push that some students need to enter the field of engineering.
Half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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