The project, coordinated by KERA Channel 13 and KDTN Channel 2, happened November 30 at Fujitsu Network Transmission Systems on Telecom Parkway in Richardson. Teachers participated in a workshop to learn hands-on, interactive methods to teach about the changing face of American factories.Educators engaged in problem-solving and team-building activities, and reviewed the innovative curriculum program that includes a four-lesson teachers' resource guide with student worksheets and activity suggestions, and a step-by-step plan for organizing factory tours. The workshop was followed by a tour of Fujitsu, when teachers talked with company representatives about manufacturing.
"I want my students to know what's available for them at the end of the tunnel," said Cynthia Delaney, a cooperative education teacher at Newman Smith High School in Carrollton, Texas. "I'm particularly excited about the many manufacturers who are willing to provide students an up-close look at factories, which will debunk some students'preconceived notions of drab, dirty workplaces."
Milton Green, who teaches production and manufacturing at Carter High School, said, "This program reinforces the importance of working with others, which is an important message to relay to students. Youngsters these days are so 'me-oriented,' and yet, any place they work, any job they have, they'll have to learn to cooperate from top to bottom."
Participating educators have since taken the curriculum materials and teaching methods back to their classrooms and are organizing manufacturing tours for students in their own communities. The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) will help arrange tours for students through its Educational and Research Foundation arm.
"It's exciting to see the country getting back to a manufacturing mindset," said Ken McGill, Director of Human Resources at Fujitsu Transmission Networking Systems in Dallas. "There are exciting job opportunities in manufacturing and the value of 'What's Up In Factories?' is its role in creating an interest and enthusiasm for acquiring the skills that will lead to interesting and solid jobs in manufacturing."
Brandon Barnes, Director of the KERA/KDTN Educational Resource Center, said, "What's Up In Factories?"ties directly into the vocational curriculum of many of our high schools. By making students aware of the manufacturing process and career opportunities, we are addressing an area that has often been taken for granted."
Ask Businesses to Cooperate | Dallas Teachers Stay |
Communication, Dedication | Blackboard Tips | "What's Up" Video