Design Squad Makes Engineering Fun

For some time, I've been talking about how to make science and technology curricula female-friendly. One important way is to focus upfront on how science and technology can be applied.

PBS' Design Squad does just that.  Overall, this television program does a good job of presenting gender-balanced, racially diverse kids participating in real life design challenges and competitions, with the winner getting a college scholarship. The show's website offers educators guidance on using Design Squad materials in the classroom.

Joanna Trombley is Chair of the West Chester (PA) Area School District Technology and Engineering Education Department.  She used Design Squad's dance pad activity for a sixth grade class project on electronics. According to Joanne, "These activities let you take the key electricity/electronic concepts and apply them to solve problems." Of course, anything related to dance, in particular, will likely appeal to many girls.  This video shows the illuminating class project in action.

Do you know any engineering and technology activities of special interest to female students? Post your suggestion on my blog and share it with others in the community! 

And for more on female-friendly science and technologies, take a look at my article, "Gender Differences in Learning Style Specific to Science, Math, Engineering and Technology (SMET)".

10% Off SciGirls Videos

Another excellent PBS series is SciGirls, which features "Science by Girls for Girls."

In May, we're offering a 10% discount on SciGirls DVDs.  Each 2 hour DVD includes 14 episodes, activity guides, and female scientist profiles.  Use coupon code MAY10 during online checkout (or on the print order form) to receive your discount.