Science Learning Centres: STEM Case Studies
This collection includes ten case studies that link the world of engineering to Key Stage Three Science. The case studies help to link classroom learning with real-life science and engineering challenges. Each case study includes descriptions of the products being looked at, student activities and teacher guidance. The case studies include:
• Blu-Ray DVD Player (Sharp)
• Air Products
• Battery-powered lawnmower (Bosch)
• Popcorn polymer (BP)
• Oil rig risers (BP)
• The Mosquito
• The Paper Cup Company
• Acticoat (Smith & Nephew)
• Industrial hemp
• MRI scanning (Siemens)
The activities described in the case studies aim to illustrate an engaging way of teaching science, technology or engineering using real-life contexts. The set of case studies was funded by the Dulverton Trust.
- PDF: Download background
- URL: http://stem.org.uk/cx5j
HEALTH and SAFETY
Any use of a resource that includes a practical activity must include a risk assessment.
Please note that collections may contain ARCHIVE resources, which were developed at a much earlier date.
Since that time there have been significant changes in the rules and guidance affecting laboratory practical work.
Further information is provided in our Health and Safety guidance.
Blu-Ray DVD Player (Sharp)
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating the evolution of the Blu-Ray DVD player, starting with the invention of the laser in 1958. This is a science enquiry story of how these devices have evolved from the invention of the laser in 1958 to the high-tech blue laser Playstations that have greater…
Air Products
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating air products and how they can be used. How do you deliver the right amount of gas to a patient during an operation? A modern twist on a very old design is the answer. Air Products produce rotameters, which help the anaesthetist calibrate the flow of…
Battery-powered Lawnmower (Bosch)
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating battery powered lawnmowers and their potential environmental impact. Lawnmowers have come a long way since they were a mechanical cutter being pushed along by hand. A smart battery (like in your mobile phone) lets you roam free from the plug (and stops…
4/5- Publication year: 2000 - 2009
- Activity sheet
Popcorn Polymer (BP)
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating the production of oil and how oil reserves are located. If the oil reserves are running out, how can we get more out of what's still down there? Petroleum engineers have to flush out oil reserves using water, but often the water diverts into nearby…
Oil Rig Risers (BP)
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating recovery techniques used in the oil and gas industry and their potential environmental impact. We need more oil and gas, but at what cost to the environment or to the safety of those extracting it? Oil and gas reserves are becoming scarcer and harder…
- 3/5
- Publication year: 2000 - 2009
- Activity sheet
The Mosquito
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating how science is used to build devices that drive groups of youngsters away from buildings. Hearing loss is age-related: this company uses that science knowledge to build devices that drive groups of youngsters away from buildings. Kids are naturally outraged…
- 5/5
- Publication year: 2000 - 2009
- Teacher guidance
The Paper Cup Company
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating the design process involved in developing a paper cup for manufacture. You wouldn't believe making a paper cup could be complicated, but there's a lot of science reasoning behind the product design.Your students can compete in the Dragon's…
Acticoat (Smith & Nephew)
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating the use of metals to kill germs in the treatment of wounds. 'Silver Pants' is a humorous take on a modern application of ancient technology - using metals to kill germs. Smith & Nephew have developed a posh plaster called 'Acticoat'.…
Industrial Hemp
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating the industrial uses of Hemp. Hemp is making a comeback! Industrial hemp (as it should be referred to) has been used for thousands of years for ropes, medicines, insulation, oil, seed, paper, canvas - even for concrete by the Romans. It seriously fell…
MRI Scanning (Siemens)
A Science Learning Centres Engineering Case Studies resource investigating the super magnets used in MRI scanning machines. Can MRI scans discover if you're telling lies? Siemens produce super-magnets for their MRI scanning machines. These produce incredibly detailed pictures of inside your body without the need for dangerous…
Collection author
Resource by: Science Learning Centre
Comments
No comments yet