Purdue University Technology Education Collegiate Association

Indiana Curriculum Content Standards

Students participating in this program will be able to:

  • Develop technological products and services.
  • Use tools, machines, materials, and energy to produce products and services.
  • Select appropriate technology to solve problems and meet opportunities.
  • Appropriately use technology to extend human potential to improve and control our environment.
  • Assess the impacts of technology on individuals, society, and the environment.
  • Use appropriate personal and interpersonal skills to participate in a technological society.
Technology Processes Technology Applications
Project Lead the WayTM

Introductory Level
Content Headings Course Descriptions
TECHNOLOGY (36 total weeks of instruction at the Middle School or Junior High School level  course content is divided into three 12-week or two 18-week classes) An introductory activity-based course in which students are introduced to the importance of technology and the principles used to develop, produce, use and assess it. The students develop both individual and group abilities that are needed to participate in and contribute to society.

Technology Processes Level


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Content HeadingsCourse Descriptions
COMMUNICATION PROCESSES (18 or 36 weeks) A specialized course that explores the technological processes used to produce and deliver graphic and electronic communication media.
CONSTRUCTION PROCESSES (18 or 36 weeks) A specialized course that explores the technological processes used to produce residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and a variety of civil structures.
DESIGN PROCESSES (18 or 36 weeks) A specialized course that explores the technological processes and employs creative problem solving in developing, engineering, testing, and communicating designs for products, structures, and systems.
MANUFACTURING PROCESSES (18 or 36 weeks) A specialized course that explores the technological processes used to obtain resources and change them into industrial materials and finished industrial and consumer products.
TRANSPORTATION PROCESSES (18 or 36 weeks) A specialized course that explores the technological processes used to move people and cargo in vehicles and by other means on land and in water, air, and space.

Technology Applications Level


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Content HeadingsCourse Descriptions
COMPUTERS IN DESIGN AND PRODUCTION SYSTEMS (18 or 36 weeks) This course focuses on using computer systems in producing drawings and related documentation for products and structures and in controlling automated production systems. The emphasis is placed on using modern computer applications rather than on developing job skills. NOTE: This course is to be locally developed (i.e., tailored to each school).
FUNDAMENTALS OF ENGINEERING (18 weeks) This course will focus on the actions and processes of engineering as found in the design and application of materials, products, structures, and systems.
TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY (18 weeks) This course is designed to provide students with an opportunity to understand the interactions of science, technology, and society and use the knowledge gained as a guide to responsible decision making.
TECHNOLOGY ENTERPRISE (18 weeks) A synthesis course that allows students to apply technological and managerial principles in organizing, financing, and operating a company to produce a product, structure, or service.
TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS (18 or 36 weeks) A study of the technologies used in industrial, business, and human service occupations. Creative problem solving activities address current, real world conditions. Computer experiences incorporate simulation and control systems.

Project Lead The Way TM


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Content HeadingsCourse Descriptions
COMPUTERS INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING (36 weeks) This Project Leads The Way course applies principles of rapid prototyping, robotics and automation. Students use CNC equipment to produce actual models of their three- dimensional designs. Fundamental concepts of robotics used in automated manufacturing and design analysis are included.
INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (36 weeks) This Project Lead The Way course develops student problem-solving skills using a design development process. Models of product solutions are created, analyzed and communicated using solid modeling computer design software.
PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING (36 weeks) This Project Leads The Way course helps students understand the field of engineering / engineering technology by exploring various technology systems and manufacturing processes. Students learn how engineers and technicians use math, science and technology in an engineering problem solving process to benefit people. The course also includes concerns about social and political consequences of technological change.
CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE (36 weeks) This Project Leads The Way course will introduce students to the fundamental design and development aspects of civil engineering and architectural planning. Computer software will allow students to design, simulate, and evaluate the construction of buildings and communities.
BIOTECHNOLOGY (36 weeks) This PLTW course will introduce the fundamental aspects of biotechnology and the processes related to this emerging field. Engineering principles will be used in conjunction with scientific knowledge to explore and investigate such areas as biomedical devices, pharmaceutical and medical therapies, and agricultural research and development.
AEROSPACE TECHNOLOGY (36 weeks) This course will provide students with the knowledge and experience to apply mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles to the design, development, and evaluation of aircraft and space vehicles, and their operating systems. Emphasis should include the investigation of flight characteristics, analysis of aerodynamic design, and the impact of this technology on the environment.
DIGITAL ELECTRONICS and ENGINEERING DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT (Both 36-week courses) These two PLTW course titles have been approved for Indiana's schools (under the guidelines for Multidisciplinary classes).