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Name of NGM Educator:

Charles Haynes, Computer Aided Design/Drafting Teacher
Emmett O'Brien Technical High School

Name of Host Company:

Covidien, Inc.

Grade Level:

11th, 12th grades

Student Work Types:

• Team/group project utilizing ten Design Process steps
• 3D Solid model development of project
• Team/group project and design review presentation

Task Abstract: During my externship at Covidien it was the emphasis on teamwork that stood out most in my mind. From the people on the manufacturing floor to the high-level decision makers in the corporate towers, the ability and necessity to function in teams was repeatedly stressed.

Most students do not fully appreciate the value of being a contributor to a team outside of the arena of sports. However, it is essential that they learn that the ability to work cooperatively with others is a skill that is now required in almost any occupation they will undertake. It will have a direct impact not only on one attaining employment but, also, on ones advancement, and the retaining of that employment.

Task Objectives:

• The student will learn to cooperatively function in design groups.
• The student will be able to explain four main teamwork skills and give examples.
• The student will be able to create 2D and 3D drawings of their designs.
• The student will be able to demonstrate and document the ten steps in the design process.

Esssential Understandings/Questions:

• What is the advantage of working in teams instead of individually?
• What are the four main teamwork skills?
• What are four employability skills that will enable a person to become a more valuable member to any team?

Task Description: The students will be organized into teams of two or three and given the task of designing a new computer workstation for the CADD department. They will document the design steps they take toward the creation of their design. And they will prepare a design-review presentation of the finalized design.

Resources Required: AutoCAD, Inventor and Microsoft Office software.

Prior Learning Required: AutoCAD, Inventor and Microsoft Office training.

Educator Comments: Having worked little in manufacturing over the past ten years it was an enjoyable experience to be back in industry and to actually contribute to the work that was being performed. Every department I was able to spend time with aloud me to reacquaint with some old experiences and begin some new ones. Additionally, I made some contacts with people that I would like to maintain a relationship with to the end of improving my program. It was time well spent.