Video of the CNYTEA Awards Presentation & Tour of the Cazenovia Technology Education Department

Cazenovia Republican Article on the Technology Education Program

2011 NYSTEA Conference

http://www.nystea.com/content/2011-nystea-annual-conference

Baker High School Tech Students Design Project for Ray Middle Technology Class

Three students from Paul Mizer's "Engineering, Design & Developmen"t course (Project Lead the Way) took on a design problem brought to them from by myself (Mo Lepine) and Annette Wallace. We asked them to design a magnet chassis for our Lego Maglev Train activity for our 7th Grade Technology class. FYI... I shot this interview with two of the students and Matt Hudson with my iPhone. Kinda cool if you ask me!

SkanTek Modular Technology

by David Baden –Solvay Middle School 

In September of 2004 the Solvay Union Free School district opened the doors of their brand new intermediate school housing grades 4 thru 8.  Included in this new building is a state-of-the-art Technology Education facility consisting of a material processing area flanked by two Modular Technology rooms. The ScanTek Modular program was provided by RJT Educational Training Systems in Happauge, New York. This program allows students to explore 20 different technologies simultaneously while their progress is tracked in real time by the ClassAct Management System. These technologies are: Aerodynamics, Computer Aided Design (CAD), Construction, Electricity, Alternative Energy, Digital Sound, Digital Photography, Computer Aided Publishing, Multimedia Production, Electronic Communication, Space Technology, Navigation & GPS, Computer Applications, Pneumatics, Mechanisms, Robotics & Automation, Industrial Control, Research & Design, Graphics & Animation and CNC Technology. Built in to all the modules is peripheral hardware and/or software offering students a real world, hands-on application of the various technologies.  The management system, in addition to tracking student progress, is capable of providing a variety of reports through the few simple clicks of a mouse. Examples of these reports are: Attendance, Objectives, Competencies, Competency Gains, Assignment and Correlation to Standards. 

The true power of this program, in addition to it’s curriculum, is it’s nature to develop self 

directed learners. Here is a quote from a district content specialist who has observed the program several times at length: 

“What you are creating in your classroom are self-directed learners who are self- 

managing, self-monitoring, and self-modifying.  They have been fully instructed in how 

to navigate the learning centers in the room. They come in, go to the station, sit down, 

and begin to really work. (self-managing)  They take themselves through their 

programs, take the assessments, see what they "Know, What to Know, Learned" 

(KWL). (self-monitoring)  They correct their mistakes, review material that they may 

have missed (self-modify), and when they have "passed" that component, they move on 

to the next one (self-managing).  Your role as a facilitator frees them from dependency 

on the sage on a stage. They turn to you respectfully when they have a problem or 

need your guidance. Otherwise, they are little problem solvers who rely on 

themselves.“ 

Built in to the curriculum is the flexibility for modifications. Steps are currently in place to  review the New York State assessments in Math and Science, identify specific cross curricular content and modify the Modular curriculum accordingly. It is through these efforts that will provide the Solvay Technology Education Department a genuine ability to “form fit” a  computerized delivery of curriculum to it’s students and directly support Math, Science and Technology standards with measurable outcomes.

CNYTEA Meeting/Tour at Liverpool High School ~ 3/9/11

Basic AutoCAD Program ~ presented by David Chartrand  dchartrand@liverpool.k12.ny

This presentation was designed for teachers interested in starting an AutoCAD course or whowant to update their curriculum to AutoCAD 2010. Each participant received a DVD that  contains several units of study including: Introduction to AutoCAD 2010, Starting a Drawing,  AutoCAD Drawing Aides, Drawing Tools, Coordinate Systems, Line Conventions, Layers, Annotations, and Layouts. Each unit includes a PowerPoint with objectives, quizzes, assignments and drawings to be completed. A grading rubric is also included. Anyone that did not make the meeting that would like a DVD may obtain one by contacting David.

USFIRST Robotics ~ presented by Todd Dischinger and Karin Dykeman 

tdischinger@liverpool.k12.ny

Todd and Karin did a brief overview of USFIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) and our national robotics team. The team was formed as a Club and is opento all students from grades 9-12. Students who join this club help design and construct, along with teachers and corporate volunteers, a radio controlled robot. The founder of the program is Dean Kamen creator of the Segway and DEKA Research and Development. For more information about USFIRST visit their website http://www.usfirst.org. For more information about the Liverpool robotics program and possible corporate sponsorship in your area contact Todd.

Tormach CNC Milling Machine ~ presented by Eric Hubbard ehubbard@liverpool.k12.ny.us

Eric presented a brief overview of the capabilities of our new Tormach CNC Milling Machine and some of the projects he is currently working on with students. This machine is primarily    used for our CIM (Computer integrated Manufacturing) courses and for making parts for our national robotics team. The course exposes students to the fundamentals of computerized manufacturing technology, and allows them to use their computer solid modeling skills developed in Introduction to Engineering Design. Students also explore a variety of topics such as CNC equipment, CAM software, robotics, and flexible manufacturing systems. Students will use this software and equipment to produce actual models of their 3- D designs. Teachers interested in obtaining more information about the mill may visit the manufacturers website http://www.tormach.com

Broadcasting Studio and Course Outline ~ presented by Sean Brown  sbrown@liverpool.k12.ny.us

As part of the tour Sean Brown gave an overview of our broadcasting facility and student work. The Broadcasting Technology course explores the evolution of the television industry   both on-air and behind the scenes. Students have an opportunity to discuss and create qualitymedia productions such as news and sports broadcasts. To accomplish this, the course emphasizes a hands-on approach in providing both in front of and behind the scenes camera experiences. The technical concepts covered include camera operation, video compositing,  production outlines, lighting, sound engineering, remote shooting, directing, anchoring, videography, and DVD authoring. Students also explore a variety of broadcasting careers such as on-air reporting, sportscasting, weathercasting, investigative reporting, and program hosting. Students who successfully master the content are eligible to help run the high school’'s TV channel “Liverpool Live” for the year. Broadcasts include morning announcements and major school events. For more information about the program you can contact Sean.

NYSTEN ~ New York State Technology Education Network

by Mark Russell –Soule Road Middle School –Liverpool

The New York State Technology Education Network had a mission to integrate math, science and technology into activities, which were developed in 1994-1996 at Hofstra University. The NYSTEN (MST) enhancement was funded by a 1.6 million dollar National Science Foundation grant and 2.7 million in additional industrial matching funds. The project trained 94 math, science and technology teachers, who then conducted over 150 staff and community workshops. 

An implementation resource guide was developed which contained the MST integrated activities. The following laboratory based activities: Smart Dwelling, Filtering of Airborne Particles, Electronic Circuit Design/ Safety Light System and Designing Your Bedroom supported the technical areas of: computer control, bio-related technology, electronics and computer aided drawing and design respectively.

Quoting from the Implementation resource guide: “This teacher enhancement grant focuses on engineering problem solving, integrated mathematics, science and technology in the context of new pedagogical practices in cooperative learning, enfranchising women and minorities and authentic assessment.” NYSTEN was an excellent opportunity to get together with other leaders and professionals from all around New York State with a focus on improving technology education.

CNYTEA High Speed Maglev ~ Rail Competition ~ Saturday, April 30th 2011

What: A FREE student competition for both Middle School (6-8) and High School (9-12) Central New York Technology Students. The participants will use provided Lego Simple Machine Kits to design and construct both a Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) Train & High Speed Rail Train. The teams will race along a 50 foot long track which will switch from Maglev to Traditional Rail for two separate races. The combined race times for both competitions will determined the winners for both divisions. CNYTEA will provide trophies for the Middle & High School Divisions.

When: The competition is tentatively planned for Saturday, April 30th (10 am - 3 pm) at my
Technology Lab at Ray Middle School ~ 7650 VanBuren Road, Baldwinsville.

How: There will be no need for teams to have to prepare or construct anything prior to the competition... it will be a "Hands On ~ Problem Solving" Competition. Build it, race it and have fun!

http://mrlepinetechnology.blogspot.com/

Why: We, as Technology Education Teachers, must provide our students opportunities to demonstrate their skills and to interact with other youths with similar interests. With all the statewide and national attention to the potential of high speed rail transportation, this event could draw interest from the local media and local politicians. I will work hard to invite the Post Standard, and local Television Stations, but the success of this event will totally depend on participation from a large diverse group of students. For those teachers that are looking for positive P.R. and something to excite and energize your program and students... this is an ideal event to get involved in! I will post more information on this blog as the event date draws nearer.

The Central New York Technology Education Association & The Technology Alliance of Central New York

Vernon A. Tryon 

Retired ~ SUNY Oswego ~ Department of Technology

The Central New York Technology Education Association (CNYTEA) has had a long 

and beneficial relationship with the Technology Alliance of Central New York (TACNY) 

(until 2003, the Technology Club of Syracuse). Many individuals have been members of 

both groups and some have held leadership positions in both organizations. Clearly, 

the strongest connections have been through the Outstanding Teacher Awards Pro- 

gram of TACNY. Many CNYTEA members have received the awards and others have 

served on the Awards Committee. To date, 24 of the 92 awards (i.e. 26%) that have 

been presented have gone to Technology Education teachers. Three of them, Earl Billings, Maurice Lepine and Todd Dischinger, have received the award twice. 

Written records of the early days of the Outstanding Teacher Awards Program have 

not been found but the recollections of several individuals who were involved provide 

some information. The idea of forming the awards program appears to have been first 

discussed when Al Harvey was president of the Technology Club. An awards commit- 

tee was formed in 1987. Those who developed the idea and shaped the operating pro- 

cedures included Thomas LaClair, Louis Ragonese, Steven Tehon, Ray York, and Clem 

Nadieu. Jack McKissick was one of the Technology Club directors who was especially 

supportive of the awards program. Initial planning took about one year and the first 

awards were made in the school year 1988-1989. 

Tom LaClair was the first chairman of the committee. He was followed by Philip Ho- 

ran, who relinquished the chair when he became president of the Technology Club in 

1997. Gary Rivenburg served as chairman for one year during the span of Phil Horan’s 

service. Vernon Tryon became chairman of the committee in 1997. Louis Ragonese and 

Steven Tehon have been members of the committee from its inception to the present 

day. The awards criteria were especially well formulated by the early committee and have 

seen very little change over the years. They call for the selection of teachers who: 

• Inspire students to pursue study in fields related to mathematics, science, or 

technology 

•Encourage students to demonstrate outstanding academic achievement 

•Involve students in co-curricular activities such as mathematics, science, or 

technology exhibits or competitions 

•Serve as role models for students in the responsible use of technology 

•Demonstrate active participation in professional development 

•Share their expertise and enthusiasm with colleagues 

The Technology Club of Syracuse established the Outstanding Teacher Awards Pro- 

gram to recognize extraordinary contributions to the advancement of mathematics, 

science, and Technology Education for the elementary and secondary students of 

the five counties of Central New York State – Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onond- 

aga, and Oswego. From the outset, the Board of Directors wanted the teacher 

awards to be prestigious. They firmly believed in the direct relationship between 

high quality teaching in the schools and qualified workers for the region’s technol- 

ogy enterprises. Consequently, they decided that there should be both a financial 

award and plaques for both the teachers and their school districts. The plaques 

would be presented at some local, public occasion so the community would be made 

aware of their teachers’ good work. The monetary award would be presented at a 

formal banquet attended by the teachers, administrators, colleagues, family mem- 

bers, Technology Club members, and other interested persons. 

Award recipients received a $500 stipend from the beginning in 1988 through 2006. The 

TACNY Board of Directors decided to increase the stipends to $1000 with the 2006-2007 

program. 

Current information about the Outstanding Teacher Awards Program may be found 

on the TACNY web site at: http://www.tacny.org/teacherawards/2007/index.html

Message in Regards to the Proposed Mandate Relief from Clark Greene

Hello to all technology education teachers and friends of technology education:

Many of you have become concerned over the past days and weeks regarding a wave of significant, sometimes conflicting, and wildly varying information about the future of our discipline in New York. I and other members of the New York State Technology Education Association Executive Board have been closely monitoring the situation and separating out the rumors from fact. 

I am communicating to everyone now because now is time to act.  On Monday and Tuesday of next week, Commissioner of Education Steiner will present a package of 53 cost reduction items through mandate relief to the Board of Regents for consideration.  One of these items is the elimination of the mandate for technology education, family and consumer science, and library skills from the middle school.  NYSTEA has already communicated with the Commissioner and Regents.  Now is the time for you to contact your Regent(s) regarding this issue.

To help you, we have generated a number of items which are attached above.  They include a list of potential talking points for you to use in any personally generated communication, a 5 minute You Tube™ presentation by me that you can use with your students, parents, advocates for tech ed. etc, a sample letter, and a contact list for the Board of Regents.   I urge you to watch the You Tube presentation that can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8LDldxA_2E 

It would help if you specifically sent communication via e-mail to the representative Regent in your area.  You can find the Regent for your area at:
http://www.regents.nysed.gov/members/findrep.html     By clicking on your region, you will find the Regent for that area.

Please keep the all e-mail and communication positive, check for grammar, and express ideas professionally.  There are some early and quiet indicators that many of the Regents are friends of ours and we simply need to cultivate that positive perception by acting professionally.  If we advocate for the positive things that technology education brings to students, I believe that we can emerge stronger than ever.  

Now let’s all get to work!

Thanks for all that you do for the students of NY through technology education.

Clark Greene
2010-2011 NYSTEA President

UP NEXT: Workshop at Liverpool High School ~ Basic AutoCAD Program

On Wednesday, March 9th @ 4:00 pm 

David Chartrand (Liverpool High School ~ Technology Education Department) is offering a free presentation designed for teachers interested in starting an AutoCAD course or who want to update their curriculum to AutoCAD 2010. Each participant will receive a DVD that contains several units of study including: Introduction to AutoCAD 2010, Starting a Drawing,AutoCAD Drawing Aides, Drawing Tools, Coordinate Systems, Line Conventions, Layers, Annotations, and Layouts. Each unit includes PowerPoint’s, quizzes, and completed drawings. A grading rubric is also included. Each participant will receive a free DVD!

FIRST

by Karin Dykeman –Liverpool High School -2006 

Picture Atlanta’s Georgia Dome, full of thousands of screaming teenagers chanting, cheering, and applauding wildly. Are they there to see Carlos Gutierrez, U. S. Secretary of Commerce? Are they there to see Sergey Brin, co- founder of Google? More likely you’re thinking they’re there to see the latest hot band. Instead, those screaming teenagers are there to see and cheer for robots they built. Welcome to FIRST’s National Championship Event. 

FIRST is anacronym representing For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, an organization that was founded in 1992 by inventor Dean Kamen with the simple goal of changing the world. Kamen is using FIRST to replace in kids' minds today’s sports and celebrity heroes, with heroes in science, technology, and engineering, so that students will aspire to use their technical and intellectual skills to make the world a better place. FIRST Robotics does this by designing a yearly competition in which high school students, working in partnership with professional engineers and other mentors, design, build, and compete with a radio controlled robot they have developed from nothing more 

than their own ideas and a few supplied parts. Teams have six weeks from the time the game is revealed in early January to ship a fully functional 120 pound, 2 1/2’ x 3’ x 5’ robot to one of more than 30 regional competitions around the world. If you think that sounds like a tough thing to do, you’re wrong. It’s an unbelievably tough thing to do. It is six weeks of late nights and long weekend days spent thinking, machining, building, testing, and rebuilding. It can cost over $10000 to underwrite one year’s participation. However, as FIRST participants have been known to say, it’s the hardest fun you’ll ever have. Fun? It’s fun, because it’s unbelievably rewarding both for adults and students. 

In addition to invaluable experience and life changing inspiration, students become eligible for more than $8 million in scholarships through their participation. They get to experience a thrill, a high, and a good shot of self esteem through hard work and perseverance. They get to see what it's like to be both cooperative and fiercely competitive at the same time. It's a chance for them to see that "gracious professionalism" will get them farther and make them more proud of themselves and their teammates than cut-throat tactics will. For teachers, it’s not only the pleasure of watching students grow as individuals and in skill, but also to see their technology education programs get reinvigorated and get some good PR. If you’re interested in bringing to your school some real world experience in design, engineering, teamwork, and excitement, check out usfirst.org and find out how to start a FIRST Robotics, LEGO League, or Vex team. Oh, and about Carlos Gutierrez and Sergey Brin? They were there, but instead of the kids being there to see them, they came to see the kids and their 

robots. 

This article is part of a series that Steve Poydock has been gathering and sending over to me for the blog. We will be posting them each week, however we are looking for more contributions. Please consider sending an article of 200-300 words describing your MST, STEM or other TechEd program which have used during the past 25 years.