This engineering class, designed by the University of Texas - Austin, presents authentic experiences that inspire and teach engineering habits of mind. Engineers identify problems, research approaches and design functional solutions—skills relevant and necessary for all members of modern society. Students in this yearlong elective will build durable problem-solving skills and explore the engineering cycle through a series of collaborative, student-directed projects. Cross discipline concepts (design and invention, mathematics and science, elegance and functionality) are employed to successfully model and construct earthquake-proof buildings, design aerial camera platforms launched from drones, and craft small- and large-scale prototypes that meet customer needs. These challenges (and many others!) are socially relevant: they foster collaboration and hone communication and presentation skills, and they demand and build in students the capacity for creative problem solving and critical analysis. Engineering is an accessible, exciting, and relevant field that empowers students to become resilient and empathic problem solvers ready for 21st century challenges. 

Departmental approval is required for this course. Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors who are enrolled in Algebra II or beyond.