Manufacturing Technology in Middle School Classrooms : A Collaborative Approach

1 Constance W. Ziemian, Bucknell University, Lewisbu rg, PA, 17837, cziemian@bucknell.edu. 2 John Aument, Donald H. Eichhorn Middle School, Lew isburg, PA 17837, Aument_J@dragon.k12.pa.us 3 Donald D. Whaley, Jr., Bucknell University, Lewisb urg, PA 17837, dwhaley@bucknell.edu Abstract Today’s global economy is based on emerging technologies that are rapidly challenging the knowl edge base of its workers. The United States is challeng ed to develop a new workforce to compete in a global job market where the demand for science and engineering professionals continues to grow. To educate such a workforce, an effort must be made to close the gap between modern technology usage and its understandi g. One important way to address this knowledge gap is by educating our youth about issues in technology and engineering, with a focus on manufacturing. This p aper describes a successful outreach project focused on exposing middle school students to modern manufacturing tools and equipment. The middle schol technology curriculum, assisted in part by the desc ribed university collaboration, includes educational modules in areas including computer-aided drafting, solid mode ling, computer-aided manufacturing software tools, and computer-numerically controlled machining. Emphasi s has been placed on providing educational tools to motivate, inspire, and potentially spark a future interest in manufacturing and engineering career paths. Thi s paper explores the value of this collaborative vent ure as a model that university faculty members might use to develop or enhance opportunities for middle school students to experience hands-on technology educatio n.