Objectives

experimential-based programs

Providing free or low-cost experiential-based programs and curricula explicitly designed with the needs of Minnesota K-16 educators and future workforce demands in focus.

Filling the gap

Taking into consideration project and problem-based curricula and resources already available to educators, the Engineering Center strives to develop new programs. 

EaSy access and participation

New programs developed by the Engineering Center reduces barriers to access and participation while filling the gaps not addressed by other resources.

Explore Different Curriculum & Activities

EDUCATIONAL CARD GAMES

Explore Engineering Activities
Grades: 3-12
Time: 15 – 90 Minutes
FREE to download!

Exploring engineering has never been more fun! Each card game is framed by learning objectives and explores engineering concepts and tools including engineering disciplines, simple machines, the backward design process, and the engineering design process. Instructions and print-and-play files are available for free!

ENDORSED PROJECT/PROBLEM-BASED CURRICULUM

Explore Endorsed Project/ Problem- Based Curriculum
(K-12+)

The Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence values high-quality curricula that offer students relevant skills and industry-relevant knowledge. We vet and endorse curricula that inspire student career exploration and emphasize engineering investigation as a means to an end, not to an end in itself. With its endorsed curriculum, the Engineering Center facilitates dual credit opportunities.

ENGINEERING DESIGN CHALLENGE MODULES

Explore Engineering Activities
Grades: 3-12
Time: 15 – 90 Minutes
FREE to download!

The Engineering Design Challenge Modules are free to access and intended for a wide variety of audiences and settings. While completing the challenges, users will learn about relevant STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) principles. Each module features an Educator Guide for educators utilizing the Engineering Design Challenge Modules in the classroom – in school, out of school, and even at a distance. 

ENGINEERING DESIGN POSTERS

Explore Engineering Resource
Grades: 3-12+
FREE to download!

Download your FREE digital copy of our Engineering Design Posters! These posters are a great visual resource to support students’ understanding of the Engineering Design Process and the Backwards Design Process.


ENGINEERING MACHINE DESIGN CONTEST

Extracurricular or Supplemental Classroom Program
Grades: 5-12
Time: 20 – 50+ Hours

The Engineering Machine Design Contest is an opportunity for teams of 3-12 students to design and build a complex machine using everyday objects with the guidance of a coach.The completed machine will use multiple steps to complete a simple task. At a regional contest, teams display and exhibit their machines for a chance to advance to the Engineering Machine Design Championship. Scores are based on Team Journals, Team Presentations, and Machine Design and Operation. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) principles are explored while having fun. The program is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards and educator resources are available.

EXPLORE ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Integrated STEM Curriculum and Activities
Grades: 3-8
Time: 1 Hour to Full Course
Free to download!

The Explore Engineering Curriculum and Kit is a fun and engaging resource to inspire an interest in Engineering and STEM career pathways for 3rd through 8th-grade youth! This resource is framed by the Experiential Learning Model (Do, Reflect, Apply) and aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards and the 2019 Minnesota Science Standards. It is appropriate for in the classroom or during out-of-school programs. The curriculum supports the development of the 21st Century Skills. Kit supplies can be easily sourced and adapted.

REVERSE ENGINEERING CHALLENGE

Extracurricular or Supplemental Classroom Program
Grades: 5-12
Time: 1 – 4+ Hours
Free to download!

The Reverse Engineering Challenge (REC) is an experiential-based opportunity for teams of 2-5 students to explore engineering and 21st Century Skills while identifying a solution to a proposed challenge. Teams are given a challenge scenario and item(s) that they must disassemble to determine a solution to the challenge. Evaluation rubrics focus on teamwork, team presentation, and proposed solution. Implementation of the REC is adaptable and can be facilitated as a same-day contest, a classroom activity, or an out-of-school workshop experience.

STEM+AGRICULTURE CAREER PATHWAYS CURRICULUM

Curriculum and Activities
Grades: 6-12 
Time: 1 Hour to Full Course
Free to download!

The Minnesota State Engineering and Agricultural Centers of Excellence are excited to share their STEM+Ag Career Pathways Curriculum for 6th-8th and 9th-12th grade. Utilizing the Experiential Learning Model, the STEM+Agriculture Career Pathways Curriculum focuses on exploring student interest in STEM within the context of careers in agricultural industries. This curriculum is appropriate for in and out of the classroom and is a great fit for science teachers, career and technical teachers, and youth-serving organizations. Access for FREE!

Lean Curriculum

Secondary / Post-Secondary Educators, Industry
Time: 8+ Hours

The Engineering Center of Excellence, in collaboration with Anoka Tech through Professional Workforce Training and Organizational Partners, LLC bring you this innovative Lean Curriculum Train-the-Trainer session. Our goal is to provide exposure to real-world resources that can be leveraged in the classroom. This dual-benefit tool will fulfill our local industry’s need for Lean in-house training for new managers and employees

Lean Leader Curriculum

Secondary / Post-Secondary Educators, Administrators, & Industry Members
Time: 8+ Hours

The Engineering Center of Excellence, in collaboration with Anoka Tech through Professional Workforce Training and Organizational Partners, LLC bring you this innovative Lean Leader Curriculum Train-the-Trainer session. This curriculum will explore industry-relevant real-world tools to take your leadership skills to the next level and make a significant impact in your personal, educational and professional journey.

STEM PROFESSIONALS DATABASE

Explore Engineering Resource
Grades: K-16
Free to download!

The STEM Professionals Database is a resource for building a successful connection between your students and STEM professionals. The database serves as a way to connect Educators to STEM Professionals that are interested in speaking to students about their experiences. This creates an opportunity for K-12 and college students to experience and hear first-hand from professionals working in STEM fields.