Electrical Systems

This resource is to assist electrical instructors, construction instructors, and possibly all instructors involved in CTE education. This page displays best practices for other helpful information that assists with online instruction and assessment. The creator of this page is Joseph McNamee, Electric Systems Instructor at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center in Brecksville, Ohio. If you have any questions, please click on my name and send me an email.

About the Contributor: Joseph McNamee is currently the Electrical Systems Instructor at CVCC. The career center serves 8 of the surrounding school districts. He is currently working towards CTE certification, a Bachelor's Degree in Educational Studies, followed by pursuit of a Master's Degree in CTE Education. His 15 years of experience in the electrical construction industry along with a lifetime of construction experience from growing up in a household headed by a construction business owner affords him a deep and informed perspective of the construction industry. He is also a licensed electrical contractor in the State of Ohio.

Online Learning

Please click the link to hear online learning experiences and plan moving forward:

McNamee Online Learning

Online Resources

Google Classroom - Google Classroom provides a safe platform for student interaction. The ability to provide interactive lessons and assignments is helpful, especially in times of distance learning.

YouTube - The video sharing website provides an abundant resource of information that assists in explanation of different concepts. The reiteration of information provided by the instructor in a different way assists in information retention. Instructor YouTube Channel is a must in these times.

Interim Credentials - This resource is specific to the industry. The online credential is a pathway to graduation and credit in an accredited apprenticeship following successful completion of the course. The amount of information provided is unparalleled and focuses on essential information.

MoneySkill - This LMS is essential for students regardless of chosen pathway. Financial literacy is necessary for all students and is an important skill to master to ensure success.

Khan Academy - The online instruction provided assists in description of different academic concepts. Specifically, math and science that are key components of the electrical trade.

Best Practices

The Best Practices of Electrical Systems:

Professionalism - Student conduct online should be no different that it is in the classroom. In many cases, it is more important to act appropriately online because of the digital footprint that is left. This idea permeates all online interaction.

Accountability - Personal and collective responsibility to allow the student to evolve towards adulthood. Understanding personal accountability and accountability in a group setting allows the student to develop the skills necessary to progress towards a career. In an online instructional venue, the drive of the student is essential to keep pace with the class.

Safety - Safety is not only important when performing the tasks of the electrical trade, but also throughout daily life. A safe and non-threatening environment provides a setting that allows for growth and learning. Disavowing any type of cyber bullying or intimidation is vital.

Honesty - This works for both the instructor and students. Honesty and transparency in classroom interaction are crucial in the development of trust. Reciprocated trust eliminates hurdles that may arise. Explain and convey the expectations of the digital classroom.

Expectations - Explanation of expectation levels the playing field. When the student is aware of the responsibilities, it allows for proper planning. The expectations of the students' toward the instructor are also important. Open discussion from all involved is important to the development of desired outcomes. Explain to the students that this is not the optimal environment for CTE learning, but utilization to its fullest potential is a great lesson to learn.

Stakeholders

SkillsUSA - The CTSO associated with the electrical program at CVCC motivates and challenges students through competition and cooperation. The employment and leadership modules coupled with electrical construction and motor control competition emulate the post-education environment of the students' chosen career field. The local, regional, and national interaction, assist the student in becoming a well-rounded individual. The lockdowns we are currently experiencing interrupted this experience, but the future prospects of activity in this organization will provide applicable experience to future career fields.

Advisory Committee- The Electrical Systems program is advised by supervisors and directors of training in the commercial/residential/teledata industry. The committee meets formally twice per school year and is in constant contact regarding industry practices and innovations that will be integrated into the electrical program. The influence of the committee provides the information necessary for student success as they progress towards a career in the electrical field.

Industry Partners- From First Energy to a one-person local electrical shop, the opportunities are vast in and around our jurisdiction. The cooperation of local electrical contractors in providing early placement, internship, and shadowing opportunities provides the student with direct insight into the operations of the industry. This tangible experience allows the student to correlate instruction and practice with expectations of a future career in the industry.

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