Service Learning Oriented Pre Engineering Programs And Their Impact On Non Traditional Engineering Students

Abstract

This paper describes and analyzes a new program implemented by Engineers Without Borders-USA (EWB), JETS, Westlake High School (Atlanta, GA), and the Georgia Institute of Technology that introduces pre-college students to the field of engineering through the use of EWB-focused service learning engineering activities. This initiative differs from other high school engineering programs that emphasize competitions in that it highlights important engineering design concepts by rooting the students' motivation in the desire to help those in need. This emphasis on engineering-themed service projects allows for real-world reinforcement of sustainable engineering practices and promotes the education of ethically responsible and internationally aware students. We postulate that this move away from competition-based motivations and towards community service will be particularly appealing to non-traditional engineering students such as minorities and women. This paper will examine the case study of EWB-Westlake High School, the first ever high school EWB chapter, which was chartered in the Fall of 2006, and conducted a work trip to Tanzania in July, 2007. The program assessment surveys address which specific activities were effective and which need future refinement, and explore the impact that an engineering service learning program can have on the future goals of the students involved. In addition, two new initiatives will be highlighted; a new national initiative that promotes engineering-focused service learning in high schools, and a local initiative focused on bringing service learning themes into preengineering curricula throughout the state of Georgia. This paper will include an alignment of program activities with state and national education standards, and should provide other high schools with the tools to initiate their own programs.