Scalextric4schools - Free workshop and resources
The STEM programme offers an opportunity to encourage subject departments especially science, mathematics, and design and technology in secondary schools to consider the advantages of working closely together, thus reflecting the ways these subjects are used in real life. For the reality of Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics inside the classroom is different from that outside. Inside the classroom: Science and Mathematics dominate the curriculum time and resources. Outside the classroom: Technology and Engineering dominate the world of work. STEM Working Together for schools and colleges - Michael Reiss, Director of Education. The Royal Society and John Holman, National STEM Director |
The event aims to foster links between the stem subjects by involving two teachers and one technician from 10 schools in the Scalextric4schools challenge. The challenge is for secondary school children to design their own Scalextric car in Pro/ENGINEER. Students will then be able to manufacture their own car, fit it with standard Scalextric motors and drive train and then race it on a Scalextric track. During this process students will learn how the laws of physics apply to car performance how a car works mechanically and dynamically and strive to design a car to lap a Scalextric track as quickly as possible. For more information see: http://scalextric4schools.org/
The event aims to:
| • | Develop subject knowledge in the areas of computer aided design, computer aided manufacture and electronics including the use of PIC microcontrollers. |
| • | Develop pedagogic knowledge as teachers develop, trial, teach and support the teaching of the new units of work. |
| • | Develop STEM networks between participating schools and the Digital D&T Centre. |
| • | Use modern designing and manufacturing technologies to develop an inclusive approach to designing and making. |
| • | Develop greater understanding between the STEM subjects. |
On the course, teachers learning to use Pro/ENGINEER will be able to gain accreditation (licensing costs are not included)
| • | Teachers will also be able to: |
| • | Explore the use of Scalextric for speed measurements using microcontollers, counters and accurate astables. |
| • | Explore the use of Pro/ENGINEER for thinking in 3D and modelling solid objects. |
| • | Experiment with pwm for efficient speed control of DC motors. |
| • | Work with graphs produced by variable mark-space astables to explain how digital speed control works |
| • | Explore RC timing networks and the maths behind them. |
| • | Explore flowchart and BASIC programming for controlling motors |
| • | Experiment with solar cells and solar motors for a renewable energy Scalextric car |
| • | Explore modern materials such as QTC and super capacitors. |
The event will be offered at two centres: Finham Park School and Staffordshire STEM Centre. Each centre will host two teachers (with in interest in CAD/CAM and or electronics) and a technician from five schools.
Instead of a technician, the third person could be a support assistant or other interested person such a as a Science or Engineering Ambassador who undertakes support work in school. Where a school cannot furnish two teachers, schools will be paired up to develop their activity.
Target audience: Teachers/technicians of technology
Organisers: Hugh Johnson/Paul Gardiner/Malcolm Eyre/Tim Brotherhood
Cost: No charge
Venue 1: Finham Park School.
Course tutors: Paul Gardiner, Hugh Johnson and Tim Brotherhood
Dates: 27th June and 11th July
Times: Arrive - 9:15am, Start - 9:30am, Finish - 4:30pm, Lunch will be provided
Venue 2: Staffordshire STEM Centre.
Course tutors: Malcolm Eyre, Tim Brotherhood, Alan Bower
Dates: To be arranged
Times:
Please email paulgardiner@dsl.pipex.com with the following information if you wish to reserve a place on the course.
Name:
Subject:
School:
Preferred venue: