STEM Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

Vista Academy will offer students a STEM program that falls within the Denver Public Schools’ STEM, Arts & Information Technology Career Cluster.  Unlike the middle school program that will offer Project Lead the Way for the Middle School Gateway to Technology program, high school students will participate in a Computer Aided Design (CAD) program.  This engaging program incorporates all of the STEM essentials and combines them with elements of art through architectural based projects.  Computer Aided Design STEM gives our students dynamic opportunities within their cohorts to study unique architectural elements in international design while learning about world languages and cultures.

Students will have the opportunity to gain a postsecondary credit in Introduction to Engineering Design through our community college partner.  In the future, depending on interest, the STEM Project Lead the Way High School Program could be added.  Certifications attached to the CAD program include ADDA Drafting, Engineering Graphics and an Architectural Drafter Emphasis (C).

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The Gateway to Technology program offers up to six nine- week units, including:

Unit One: Design & Modeling (required): This unit uses solid modeling software (a sophisticated mathematical technique for representing solid objects) to introduce students to the design process.  Utilizing this design approach, students understand how design influences their lives.  Students also learn sketching techniques and use descriptive geometry as a component of design, measurement, and computer modeling.  Students brainstorm, research, develop ideas, create models, test and evaluate design ideas, and communicate solutions.

Unit 2: Automation & Robotics (required): Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics.  They learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems.  Students acquire knowledge and skills in problem solving, teamwork, collaboration, and innovation.

Unit 3: Energy & The Environment: Students investigate the importance of energy in our lives and the impact that using energy has on the environment.  They design and model alternative energy sources and participate in energy fairs to demonstrate energy concepts and innovative ideas.  Students evaluate ways to reduce energy consumption through energy efficiency and waste management techniques.

Unit 4: Flight and Space: In this unit students study the history of aerospace through hands-on activities, research, and a presentation in the form of an infomercial.  Students explore the science behind aeronautics and use their knowledge to design, build, and test a model glider.  Simulation software is used to expose students to traveling and living in space.

Unit 5: Science of Technology: This unit traces how science has affected technology throughout history.  Students learn about applied physics, chemical engineering, and nanotechnology through exploratory activities and projects.

Unit 6: Magic of Electrons: Through hands-on projects, students explore the science of electricity, the behavior and parts of atoms, circuit design, and sensing devices.  Students acquire knowledge and skills in basic circuitry design and explore the impact of electricity on our lives.