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| Tech
Ed is one of the many exploratory classes available at FHT. For 28
days, we are involved in projects such as model bridge building, rocketry,
wind powered cars, etc. Mr. Hoffman, the teacher, requires students to
take responsibility for their own work and actions. His projects are very
free-form in that he lets you do almost anything, as long as it falls within
the project parameters. New designs are common in this classroom. Occasionally,
students work from kits, but most projects are constructed from scratch.
The class is designed to simulate real life situations.
One of the projects is bridge
building. You learn to make a blueprint. This includes side, top, and bottom sketches of your
bridge. Then you must build the bridge with 2-foot long sticks of balsa
wood. Finally, it's tested. This is done by attaching a bucket to the bottom
of the bridge and slowly filling it with water. Everyone eagerly waits for the
snapping of the bridge.
A Glimpse of the Future;
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In an interview, Jay
Hoffman graced us with information about himself and his classes.
Web page Staff: Where did you receive your higher education? Hoffman: I went to Oswego University New York. WS: How did you come to work for this school? H: I just [went to the] interview, got the job, and have been here ever since. WS: What is the philosophy that governs your teaching? H: To create a hands-on technological experience that includes math and science skills. WS: What are the different activities in which students participate in Tech Ed? H: In sixth grade, it is general computer skills. In seventh grade, there is a focus on rocketry, bridge building, satellites, robotics, and how things work. In eighth grade, students work on CO2 [carbon dioxide] powered cars, hot air balloons, hydroponics, hydrodynamics, and problem solving. WS: How do you think your program will help the students in the future? H: It will equip them with technology problem solving skills. WS: What computer innovations do you foresee? H: Oh, that's a big one. I think that all monitors will be flat screened. There probably won't be any keyboards, we will just talk to our computers. Houses will become progressively more modernized. Maybe even artificial intelligence. Page Designed by: Joe Duffy |
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