Engineering Essentials for STEM Instruction: How Do I Infuse Real-World Problem Solving Into Science, Technology, and Math?

Are you looking for ways to incorporate rigorous problem solving in your classroom? Are you struggling with how to include the "E" in your STEM instruction? Here is where to start.

In this practical introduction to engineering for elementary through high school teachers, you'll learn how to create effective engineering-infused lessons that break down the barriers between science, math, and technology instruction. Veteran teacher Pamela Truesdell highlights engineering's connection to 21st century skills and college and career readiness, addresses the Next Generation Science Standards, and walks you through each step of the simple but powerful engineering design process. This is the essential tool of professional engineers and the key to engaging students in hands-on, collaborative projects that ask them to apply content area knowledge to find solutions for real-world problems. A sample lesson, links to additional resources, and guidelines for assessment ensure you'll have the essentials you need to kick off your students' exploration of engineering.

Pamela Truesdell is a member of Resource Team for the Cincinnati Engineering Enhanced Mathematics and Science Program (CEEMS) at the University of Cincinnati, where she coaches teachers as they implement Challenge Based Learning through engineering-infused lessons. A teacher for 30 years in the Cincinnati Public Schools, she taught history, mathematics, computer science, and engineering. She served as the chairperson for the Engineering Department at Western Hills Engineering High School and was part of the committee that helped the school receive National Certification from Project Lead the Way Engineering in 2010. In 2011, Truesdell was selected for the Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship program, and she served two years at the National Science Foundation working on the Research Experiences for Teachers in Engineering Program.