The Application of Engineering and Technology to the Teaching of Mathematical Skills

Overview

Careers in engineering present some of the most rewarding options for students with aptitude in science and mathematics, and the future demand for engineers will be enormous. The 2006 Summer Institute at NJIT will focus on the importance of mathematical skills in engineering and technology. Participants will be able to learn how inclusion of engineering applications helps students appreciate the utility and relevance of mathematics, and relate their learning of mathematics to the real world.

The goal of the Summer Institute is to demonstrate the utility of mathematics in the world of engineering and technology, with the following specific objectives.

• Provide teachers with basic concepts of engineering as well as specific applications of engineering and technology that can be included in the activities and projects of high school mathematics instruction.
• Show mathematics teachers how their instruction can include lessons and problems that contain engineering and technology concepts.
• Provide resources and samples of engineering-related materials that can be used in class by teachers of mathematics.

Faculty

The program will be conducted by the NJIT Pre-College Program, under the direction of Dr. Howard Kimmel, Director of the NJIT Center For Pre-College Programs, Professor of Chemical Engineering, and Assistant Vice-President for Academic Affairs.  Several faculty of NJIT’s Newark College of Engineering will also contribute.

Intended Audience

Science and mathematics teachers at NCSSSMST member schools. Some of the other schools in our region with strong science programs will also be invited to send teams.

Anticipated Outcomes

Participants will leave with curriculum materials ready to be adapted for use in your classes.

As a result of participation, teachers will gain experience in the infusion of engineering-related materials into mathematics instruction.  They will gain an understanding of how engineering applications and projects can enhance the teaching and learning of mathematics.

Involvement of High School Students

Teachers from the NCSSSMST schools in our area will be invited to involve some of their students  in “reality-testing” the new methods.

Registration

Complete the Summer Institute registration form and mail it to the address on the form (not to NJIT) by May 2, 2006.  Registration is limited to 20 participants.

Costs

A $50.00 registration fee must be paid directly to NCSSSMST. NJIT will provide air-conditioned residential hall lodging and meals on the campus, as well as program-related and recreational travel.

Transportation

Each participant must provide his/her transportation. NJIT is just a few minutes from the New Jersey Turnpike and I-280, and just 5 miles from Newark Liberty Airport, from which van or train service is available to Newark Penn Station.  NJIT is just a 4-minute subway ride from Penn Station. See "Getting to Campus" for details.