Supplemental Materials for Use With Education Videotapes

Three videotapes on the profession of civil engineering were produced in 1996 under a grant from Mack-Blackwell Transportation Center (MBTC). The objectives were to educate children about professions in transportation and civil engineering in an interesting, age-appropriate way as well as to help educators explain the role of civil engineers in our society. The tapes have been widely disseminated and very well received. Although the objectives of producing the videotapes have been met, the tapes provide only a quick look at the profession. Moreover, elementary teachers and counselors may find it challenging to incorporate the content of the videos into more formal classroom activities. Thus, the proposed project will develop materials to increase the usefulness of the two videotapes directed to K-8 students. Materials may include an Internet site, reference and descriptive documents, science projects, math exercises, displays, coloring books, or similar items. Two types of materials will be developed. First, descriptive information will be prepared on such topics as civil engineering sub-disciplines, potential employers, types of employment, academic requirements, and professional organizations. Second, classroom materials will be developed that apply engineering principles and knowledge, such as projects, homework assignments, and coloring books. These documents will give students a better sense of what it takes to become a civil engineer as well as insight into the challenges and rewards of the profession. Copies of completed materials will distributed to individuals who received the original videotapes. They will also be used in existing outreach programs of the University of Arkansas’ civil engineering department.