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State Contact Information

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  • SEE FULL REGIONAL & STATE CONTACT LIST
  • sdsu Dr. Duane Crum
    State Leader

    (858) 414-6534
     
  • PLTW Judith D'Amico
    Director,Western Region PLTW

    (916) 852-1634
  • eastbay Dr. Oscar Wambuguh
    Director, Biomedical Science Affiliate
    Director, Prehealth Academic Program
    (510) 885-3252

  • pltw Dr. Eugene Hirschkoff
    Director of Program Quality

    (619) 992-6301
  • sdsu  Michelle Jordan
    School Programs manager

    (619) 316-3015
  • sdsu Dr. Bruce Westermo
    Director, Engineering Affiliate Institute

    (619) 594-7007
     
  • SEE FULL REGIONAL & STATE CONTACT LIST

..::Middle School Program::..

Middle School - Gateway To Technology's cutting-edge program addresses the interest and energy of middle school students, while incorporating national standards in math, science and technology. GTT is "activity oriented" to show students how technology is used in engineering to solve every day problems. The four instructional units excite and motivate students to use their imaginations and teach them to be creative and innovative, while gaining the skills they need to develop, produce and use products and services.

Gateway To Technology consists of six independent units that should be taught in conjunction with a rigorous academic curriculum. The units are designed to challenge and engage the exploratory minds of middle school students. Each 10-week unit contains performance objectives and suggested assessment methods. The six units are:


  • Design and Modeling
    This unit uses solid modeling (a very sophisticated mathematical technique for representing solid objects) to introduce students to the design process. Utilizing this design approach, students understand how solid modeling has influenced their lives. Students also learn sketching techniques, and use descriptive geometry as a component of design, measurement, and computer modeling. Using design briefs or abstracts, students create models and documentation to solve problems. 
     
  • The Magic of Electrons
    Through hands-on projects, students explore the science of electricity, the movement of atoms, circuit design, and sensing devices. Students acquire knowledge and skills in basic circuitry design and explore the impact of electricity on our lives. 
     
  • The Science of Technology
    This unit traces how science has affected technology throughout history. Students learn about the mechanics of motion, the conversion of energy, and the use of science to improve communication. 
     
  • Automation and Robotics
    Students trace the history and development of automation and robotics. They learn about structures, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students acquire knowledge and skills in engineering problem solving and explore requirements for careers in engineering. 
     
  • Flight and Space
    The purpose of this unit is to introduce the student to aeronautics, space, and the use of design used to help make aerospace engineering an important field. They learn about Newton's Laws of Motion, forces, rockets, propulsion, and what makes things fly. Students acquire and apply knowledge and skills in engineering problem solving and explore the many aspects of aerospace engineering. 
     
  • Energy and the Environment
    Students will investigate the importance of energy in our lives and the impact that using energy has on the environment. Students will design and model alternative energy sources and then participate in an energy fair to demonstrate ways to solve the energy crisis. Students will evaluate ways to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions through energy efficiency and waste management techniques.