Hey there everyone!
I previously started a discussion here. Since then, the project has come from an idea to reality!
My name is Jake De Necochea. I work for the Grow Manufacturing Initiative of Northern California. My job is to connect advanced manufacturing with education to create a technologically skilled workforce. I am working in conjunction with the Butte County Office of Education STEM Ninjas program to teach a class in electric longboarding. They have allowed a budget of $25000 to build a curriculum and allow for other expenses that may come with the class.
Since the idea has been approved, I will begin work on the actual curriculum and program planning. The mission statement of the STEM Ninjas program is to offer projects that students can bring home and replicate on their own, while teaching STEM practices. The eSk8 program would be no different. High school students would be taught what an electric longboard is, how it works, why it works, benefits of it, safety, and finally how to build one. They would be provided the necessary parts and tools, and students would be allowed to to keep the boards. We would take group rides to different manufacturers in the area for tours as well.
Major goals of the program are to allow reliable transportation for students in low-income areas, inspire students and show what they are capable of, and teach a wide variety of skills in the STEM field (including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, soldering, basic tool work and safety, engineering processes, physics, etc.).
I’m trying to decide what age group would be best, and I honestly think upperclassman students would be the best target audience. Juniors and seniors tend to be far more mature and level-headed, and I believe will take the program more seriously. I would accept younger students if they showed strong interest, but no one younger than high school.
What does everyone think? Given the three month time span, what should be taught?
Distributers and manufacturers: It would be greatly appreciated if bulk discounts could be made! Would anyone be available to do that?
Educators: Being that I am only 19 and have no formal education in teaching, I may need help with building an effective high school curriculum. Any tips you would have? I am adept at public speaking and creating/giving presentations, but I have never done something on this scale.
Thank you in advanced to everyone!