- May my daughter/son take only one or two of the courses in the PLTW program?
The simple answer is, "Yes." The number of courses a student may take depends on the courses offered in the school, the student's interest and success in PLTW courses, and his/her life's goals. If a student were to enroll in just one course, s/he would learn problem-solving skills, as well as math and science skills, which would be helpful in many school courses.
- Are PLTW courses challenging?
Students who have done well in their math and science courses and who like to use computers will find these courses intellectually stimulating and manageable. Each course has something special to offer all students because it is, depending on the course, a hands-on daily experience in problem-solving skills, in electronics, robotics, and manufacturing processes.
Because PLTW believes engineering and engineering technology are exciting careers, instructors have been trained in a teaching approach which involves students in the same team problem-solving activities used in college and industry. In addition, the problem-solving/analytical skills and processes are applicable to any career field. If, however, a student decides engineering is not for him or her, that learning will have occurred in high school and not later in college.
- My daughter is interested but wonders if the courses are "for boys." Are they?
Experience has shown when PLTW courses are introduced that girls, as well as boys, sign up and do well in the courses.
Using computers to design new products and control automated systems for producing new medicines, for example, or for manufacturing equipment is a dramatic change from the traditional perception of what engineers do.
Because there is a dramatic need for engineers and engineering technologists in the world, opportunities are equally there for boys and girls. Because PLTW courses are so stimulating, everyone focuses on problem-solving, on working together, and on being successful. In addition, colleges and industry are actively seeking female students and engineers as well as engineers from under represented ethnic groups in their efforts to diversify their professional workforce.
- Do colleges accept PLTW courses for admission?
Colleges vary in how they accept or recognize PLTW and AP courses. PLTW has agreements with a number of area colleges who will accept certain PLTW courses for credit. All courses count as far as the total number of high school units students have completed. Some colleges waive the entry or first-year course(s) in engineering and enroll students in the second year college course. All of this depends on the college. You are invited to consider the Exemplary Student Recognition Program that can result in transcripted college credit from SDSU. See the "Certification" page.
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