K-12 engineering education has the potential to improve student learning and achievement in science and mathematics, increase awareness about what engineers do and of engineering as a potential career, and boost students’ technological literacy, according to a new report from the National Academy of Engineering and the National Research Council.  The report examines the status and nature of efforts to teach engineering in U.S. schools.

“The problem solving, systems thinking, and teamwork aspects of engineering can benefit all students, whether or not they ever pursue an engineering career,” said Linda Katehi, chancellor of the University of California, Davis, and chair of the committee that wrote the report.  Engineering education at the K-12 level should emphasize engineering design and a creative problem-solving process, the committee said, according to a National Academies press release.

It should include relevant concepts in mathematics, science, and technology, as well as support the development of skills many believe essential for the 21st century, including systems thinking, collaboration, and communication. Read the full report.

Filed under: K-12 Education News