As a parent, you want the best for your child, including their education and future career. STEM careers are growing in demand, and engineering is one of the most lucrative and exciting fields within STEM. But what exactly is engineering, and what do engineers do? In this blog post, we'll explore the world of engineering and why it's a great career path for your child.
What is Engineering?
Engineering is a field of study that focuses on using science, math, and technology to design, build, and improve systems, structures, and processes. Engineers use their knowledge of these subjects to solve real-world problems and create innovative solutions that make our lives easier and safer.
Different Types of Engineering
There are many different types of engineering, each with their own unique focus and applications. Some of the most common types of engineering include:
Civil Engineering: This type of engineering focuses on designing and building infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings.
Mechanical Engineering: Mechanical engineers design and build machines and mechanical systems, such as engines and robots.
Electrical Engineering: Electrical engineers work with electricity and electronics, designing and developing electrical systems and devices.
Chemical Engineering: Chemical engineers use chemistry and physics to design and develop chemical processes and products.
Computer Engineering: Computer engineers design and develop computer systems and software.
What Do Engineers Do?
Engineers are problem-solvers who use their knowledge and skills to create solutions that make the world a better place. Some examples of what engineers do include:
Designing and building structures and systems that are safe, efficient, and sustainable.
Developing new technologies that improve our quality of life.
Creating innovative solutions to complex problems, such as climate change and cybersecurity.
Collaborating with other professionals to bring projects to life.
Why Choose a Career in Engineering?
Choosing a career in engineering can be a smart move for your child. Here are just a few reasons why:
High Demand: STEM careers, including engineering, are in high demand and are expected to continue growing in the coming years.
High Salary: Engineers are some of the highest-paid professionals, with salaries averaging around $85,000 per year.
Creative Freedom: Engineering is a field that allows for a lot of creativity and innovation, giving your child the opportunity to make a real impact on the world.
Job Satisfaction: Engineers often find their work fulfilling, as they are able to solve problems and create solutions that make a difference in people's lives.
In conclusion, engineering is an exciting and rewarding career path that can offer your child a bright future. By choosing to pursue a career in engineering, your child can use their skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world. So why not encourage them to explore this exciting field today?
We can teach children to internalize the same practices that engineers and scientists use to investigate the world, build models, develop theory, and design systems while they are still young. Kids love exploring the world around them and figuring out how things work.
There are so many different types of engineers. Engineers don't just build machines and structure; they design processes that help solve the world’s problems.
What does it mean to Think like an Engineer?
Engineers are creative problem solvers. They combine both science and art, and they think both creatively and analytically. They solve difficulties quickly and think broadly. Adding Arts to Science, Technology, Engineering makes STEAM which is better than STEM. Engineering is essential as it challenges children to apply basic principles, and learning is enhanced. Engineering activities build on real-world problems and technologies. They help children to see how science and math play out in their day-to-day lives. An engineer designs and builds complex systems, machines, products, and structures. As future engineers, children are keen to learn why and how things work. Before anything is made, it is first planned out or engineered.
Problem Solving
Problem solving is the process of solving complex or challenging issues. The problem is defined, the cause of the problem determined, alternative solutions identified, and implementing the solution. Children should learn mechanisms of identifying issues, figuring them out, and determining how to fix them.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is analyzing and evaluating an issue to form your own judgment. Critical thinking enhances children’s capacity for the presentation skills and language. Thinking systematically enhances the expression of ideas and comprehension. Critical thinkers solve problems systematically instead of using instinct or intuition.
Peer Collaboration
Peer instruction or learning is collaborative learning in pairs or small groups that allow students to find solutions to problems or discuss concepts together. Cooperative learning is essential as students from various backgrounds, upbringing, and races work together. Children learn from others and get to hear alternative opinions. The kids should know their team's roles, be good collaborators, loyal, motivate one another, appreciate their peers, avoid unnecessary communication, and use technology. Peer-to-peer learning helps students to develop deep thinking. Group learning helps children to improve oral communication, high-level-thinking, leadership skills, and self-management.
Project-Based Learning
In Project Based Learning, students apply the knowledge they acquire in engaging classroom experiences. Students should actively explore challenges and real-world problems; develop skills to live in a knowledgeable, highly technological society. Through these skills, the children become managers and directors of their learning process. A skilled teacher mentors and guides them to higher scales in learning. In project-based learning, children work with laid goals, but in problem based learning; the children set the outcomes and set the learning goals.
Hands-on-Learning
Children learn by doing; not just listening to instructors. They are involved in creating something or solving a problem. Hands-on-learning develops critical skills and brings real-world experience to the kids. They use equipment and materials used on the job. Teaching your kids to think an engineer is all about preparing them to understand how things work, pay attention to their environment, think critically, and find better ways to solve problems. These are all skills that you can reinforce in the course of their day-to-day learning.
