Work in progress — Putting the “E” in STEM teacher preparation: A new Bachelor of Science degree with an engineering education major

The National Academies report “Engineering in K-12 Education: Understanding the Status and Improving the Prospects” gives recommendations describing the importance of a necessary, systematic change in the incorporation of engineering within the K-12 education system. Existing efforts to introduce engineering into K-12 typically consist of in-service activities for teachers and summer camp experiences and/or single day events in classrooms. The effectiveness of reaching out to teachers and students as individuals is debatable, but these methods are certainly not sustainable. Systematic change will require a new paradigm - teachers who have a fundamental understanding of engineering will provide the most effective, sustainable solution for the implementation of K-12 engineering education. Ohio Northern University (ONU) has developed and introduced a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Engineering Education. This degree provides the graduate with a foundation in engineering, mathematics and education, qualifying the graduate for licensure as a secondary math teacher in the state of Ohio. The degree is similar to a General Engineering degree offered by some other Universities, expanding potential career opportunities to general engineering (sales, training, etc.) and unique opportunities in venues such as Science and Technology museums. This paper describes the fundamental structure of the degree program and the vision for those graduating with this major.