The Design TASC Engineering Design Competition: a ten-year perspective

The Design TASC (Technology and Science Connection) Engineering Design Competition, which we created for Vermont high schools, is now in its tenth year. The basic format is still very much the same as described in a previous paper (S.L. Titcomb et al., 1994). However, since that time we have learned a great deal about the practical aspects of running this type of competition, as well as how to create design criteria that provide a challenge and a positive learning experience for a wide spectrum of high school juniors and seniors. The primary features of this competition, which include design, construction, documentation, and competition, are reviewed. In addition, changes that we have incorporated over the years, and feedback from participating students and teachers, are presented. A discussion of the attitudes of students about the relationships among strategy, teamwork, and design is also included.