Philosophy

Technology education is a dynamic problem-solving and design-based program that enables students to gain hands-on participatory experiences that demonstrate technology’s infrastructure and scientific principles and an understanding about how things work. The International Technology Education Association defines technology as “human innovation in action. It involves the generation of knowledge and processes to develop systems that solve problems and extend human capabilities.” 

The Ramsey Technology Education Department maintains diverse programs of study that develop students’ capacity to learn and use technological systems to solve multifaceted STEM(science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) problems. It offers relevant experiences for students at all grade levels and abilities to help them learn about and understand the technological world in which they live. The department promotes career and college readiness, and 21st Century career pathways by developing interest in the human made world-its materials, products, and processes along with creativity and real-world learning in the teaching of technology, innovation, design, and engineering. It offers unique opportunities to apply numerous academic concepts through practical minds-on/hands-on applications giving these academic concepts relevance. This is accomplished by utilizing real-world tools, materials, processes, and systems to operationalize technology and engineering content. Overall the department accesses a broad spectrum body of knowledge and provides activities with specific content and industry-standard processes and tools that enable students to apply theory into practice. 

* Adapted from the International Technology Education Association & Technology for All Americans Project 

All courses focus on the following objectives: 

● To provide students with opportunities to internalize the importance of technology in our daily lives. 

● To develop an understanding of technological systems and resources as they apply to consumer products. 

● To expose students to careers within our technological society. 

● To engage students in authentic hands-on experiences related to industrial and technological practices and procedures. 

● To foster grit, persistence, self-discipline, pride, responsibility and safety in each student. 

● To develop a skill set in critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity & innovation, communication, and collaboration. 

Course Descriptions

Engineering 101: The Designed World

Prerequisite: Grade 9-10 2.5 credit in Technology Education Department 

                       Grade 11-12  None

1 Semester 2.5 credits Grades 9-12

A bridge, prosthetic limb, rocket, or something as simple as pen or shopping cart. What around you has not been designed or touched by an engineer? The designed world is the product of a design process that provides the means to convert resources into products and systems that help solve problems. In this course students will explore multiple innovations and investigate the connections between science, technology, engineering, and math in their development. Students will tackle STEM-based problems which will stretch their capacity for critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, innovation, communication, collaboration, self-direction, and persistence. Designed solutions will culminate with hands-on building of prototypes that will be tested live in the classroom.  Students will experience fabrication techniques and the safe use of basic hand tools.

Robotics, Fabrication & Design

Prerequisite: None

1 Semester 2.5 credits Grades 9-12

This course aims to provide students with a foundation in the building of motion controlled machines (robotic devices) and the mechanics principles that govern robot construction and their capacity to function. Concurrently students will develop skill in fabrication techniques and engage in the engineering design process. Related topics of study will include simple machines, measurement, material processing, and principles of electric circuits. Multiple performance assessments will challenge students to solve problems that require the construction of functioning motion controlled machines.

Introduction to Technical Drawing

Prerequisite: None 

1 Semester 2.5 credits Grades 9 – 12

This course includes basic concepts of multi-view drawing, pictorial projection and application  of both drawing board and Computer Assisted Drawing (C.A.D.-Auto Cad) drawing techniques. Students utilize principles of technology in solving problems related to technical drawing, geometry, size description, sectional views, and computer drawing. Students also receive introductory information and assignments as they relate to advanced drawing in the areas of architecture and engineering based drawing.

Architectural Drawing*                                      *Honors Option Available

Prerequisite: “C” average in Introduction to Technical Drawing 

1 year 5 credits Grades 10 – 12

This course is designed specifically around the field of architectural drafting as it pertains to, but is not limited to, homes. The principles of technology as they relate to design and problem solving are integrated throughout the course. Students receive instruction on the architectural applications of C.A.D. Concepts addressed cover building details as well as basic rules for construction. Floor plans, elevations, and perspective are parts of work done by the student. Model building is an integral component of the program which assists students in visualizing and retaining what they learn. (Not offered in 2023-2024)

Engineering Drawing/Computer Aided Drawing*     *Honors Option Available  

Prerequisite: “C” average in Introduction to Technical Drawing 

1 year 5 credits Grades 10 – 12

This course provides students with in-depth knowledge involving mechanical engineering drawing areas using AutoCAD and Inventor software. The course builds on the knowledge acquired from Introduction to Technical Drawing by addressing the following practices: auxiliary views, ISO elliptical drawing methods, sheet metal development, blocks and drawing attributes, gear design, plumbing, electronic circuits, thread design and fabrication, also 3D modeling and printing.  (Offered in 2023-2024) 

Design Drawing Honors

Prerequisite: “B” average in Introduction to Technical Drawing, plus Engineering Drawing, and/or Architectural Drawing

1 year 5 credits Grades 11 – 12

This course is based on the design concept of problem solving. A variety of problem solving methods will be utilized. All methods will guide the student through the problem solving process. Performance tasks will be given in areas of logo design, simple machines, DC motors, robotics and architectural innovation. Students will be charged to design and build solutions to given challenges. Interdisciplinary connections will be integrated into tasks and feedback on designed solutions will be sought after from members of the local community and/or professionals in the field.  (Not offered in 2023-2024)

Introduction to Woodworking

Prerequisite: None

1 semester 2.5 credits Grades 9 – 12

This course offers students the opportunity to learn and apply concepts relating to technology, design and problem solving while using wood as the fabrication material. Project design, planning and cost computation form part of the course’s introduction. Using individual design and problem-solving related projects as a vehicle, the student learns the safe and proper uses of hand and power tools, machine operations, and finishing techniques.

Advanced Woodworking*                                 *Honors Option Available

Prerequisite: “B” average in Introduction to Woodworking and Teacher Recommendation 

1 semester 2.5 credits Grades 10 – 12

This course offers students another semester of woodworking while involving STEM activities. Students will research a proposed project and design, plan, and build their structure. This course utilizes in-depth problem solving and analytical skills.

Introduction to Photography

Prerequisite: None 

1 semester 2.5 credits Grades 9 – 12

This introductory course will provide students with an insight into the world of photography, visual communication, computer and digital photography, problem solving and laboratory technologies. Students will receive hands-on training in the selection of a camera, photo composition and editing, use of black and white film, development of materials in a darkroom setting, use of digital still cameras, and computer-based processing and printing using Photoshop software. All students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge by shooting several rolls of film with a 35 mm camera, using a digital camera and working in a fully equipped darkroom and computer photo-lab setting. Class members will be provided with cameras and all materials necessary for completion of this course.

Advanced Photography*                                  *Honors Option Available

Prerequisite: “C” in Introduction to Photography and Teacher Recommendation 

1 semester 2.5 credits Grades 9 – 12 

This course provides the students with the opportunity to expand their knowledge of basic photography techniques. The students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of projects that simulate the experiences of a professional photographer. Extensive use of digital cameras and editing software is the main focus of this class. The class will also have the opportunity to participate in studio photography, commercial art imaging and animation. All equipment and materials, including digital cameras, will be provided for students.

Digital Video Production and Technology

Prerequisite: None

1 semester 2.5 credits Grades 9 – 12

Advances in technology have made video production a desirable skill in many walks of life. The ability to create informative and entertaining productions for friends, clients or the general public to view will help prepare you for the 21st Century. This course offers the student an opportunity to create a variety of videos from concept to completion. Learn how to capture video using a digital camera and edit the footage using specialized software.

Independent Study (All Tech Ed course of studies) 

Prerequisite: Department Approval 

1 semester or 1 year 2.5 or 5 credits Grades 10 – 11

These courses are designed by students to further advance their studies in the areas of Photo, Tech Drawing, Wood, or Digital Video. Departmental approval is required. Students who have exhausted courses in their discipline of interest who are interested in advanced study should consult a teacher in the department.