CTE

Automotive Technology (formerly Power and Energy Technology)  

0.5 Credit
Course No. 533
Trimesters: 1

This course provides an in-depth study of basic automotive vehicle systems. Areas of basic operational knowledge, care and maintenance of engine, fuel, ignition, suspension, brakes, electrical, and drive train systems will be studied in a hands-on fashion. Emphasis will be placed on safety practices, shop operations, troubleshooting, testing, adjusting, repairing, and replacing components using appropriate test equipment and service information. Upon completion, students should be able to perform a variety of automotive repairs using proper service procedures and to operate appropriate equipment. It is recommended that students have their own car to work on but it is not required.

Boat Building and Navigation  

0.5 Credit
Course No. 530    
Trimesters: 1

Boat Building and Navigation explores all stages of boat building from layout and lofting to hull assembly and finishing techniques. Students in this course have an opportunity to construct their own boat with available plans ranging from small plywood canoes to a 14’ skiff. Light design sketching, modeling, and full-scale boat construction will be part of this “hands-on” course. Many forms of boating and navigation will also be explored including boating basics, knot tying, legal requirements, water sports, safety, and GPS (Global Positioning Systems). Students who successfully complete the course and pass the CT Safe Boating Exam will have the opportunity to receive the State of Connecticut Safe Boating Certificate. This certificate is mandatory for all persons wishing to operate a vessel upon state waters.

Video Game Design

0.5 Credit
Course No. 551
Trimesters: 1

One of the most exciting opportunities in programming today revolves around the video game industry with a variety of careers such as modeler, programmer, and traditional artist. The evolution of the video game industry will be studied and analyzed in terms of its development. Students will learn to analyze, design, and create interactive, three-dimensional animation and games. Instructional activities will include rules of gameplay, 3D graphics, GUI’s, objects, graphics, sound, animation, and scripting in a gaming environment. Several software platforms will be utilized to create graphics to be used in individual projects. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the major aspects of simulation, game design, and development. No programming experience is required

Fundamentals of Criminal Justice

0.5 Credit
Course No. 488
Trimesters: 1

Fundamentals of Criminal Justice is designed to introduce students to the fields of law enforcement, the court system, and the correctional system. Students will learn about the trial processes and interpret police ethics and constitutional law in relation to law enforcement operations. Students will also learn about criminal theory, how to analyze a crime scene, and use clues to profile a criminal as they go inside the criminal mind. This course will also explore the multitude of careers available in the criminal justice system.

Introduction to Business

0.5 Credit
Course No. 462
Trimesters: 1

This course is designed to introduce students to different disciplines of business so that they can learn to be effective business leaders. Students will explore and discuss business topics related to marketing, international business, accounting, business law, and entrepreneurship. Students will also develop personal business skills such as time management, professional growth, and communication. Students will learn to leverage a variety of technology for efficient business use.

Business Law

0.5 Credit
Course No. 498
Trimesters: 1

This course prepares students to develop an understanding of rights and obligations in meeting the legal demands of society as individuals, employees, and as business owners. Students will be able to identify the legal and ethical issues that result from business decisions and practices. Topics covered in this course include torts, contracts, the court system, intellectual property, employment law, and how to form your own business including creation of an LLC.

Materials Processing

0.5 Credit
Course No. 521
Trimesters: 1

This course is designed to introduce students to general shop safety and practices associated with processing materials. Through hands-on exercises, students will learn how to safely use hand and power tools while working with both wood and metal. Students will focus on learning how to read procedure lists and working drawings in applying a variety of processing techniques to the building of a few projects. The projects are designed to give students as much experience as possible by using many different machines and tools. Emphasis is placed on safety, problem-solving, the proper use of tools, measuring, craftsmanship, and critical thinking.

Architectural Design    

0.5 Credit
Course No. 543
Trimesters: 1 

This course provides a solid foundation for students who are interested in pursuing a possible career and/or degree in Architecture. Learning opportunities will cultivate student awareness of fundamental skills and concepts necessary for architectural planning, design and drawing. Students will get the experience of acting as an architect and dealing with a client in developing a conceptual design to meet their needs. Local building codes will be introduced along with practical design techniques. The conceptual design will include floor plans, foundation plans, plot plans, elevations, site plans, and perspective drawings. A computer aided drafting program (Chief Architect) will be used to allow students to think creatively and critically in solving problems related to the design of their client’s home.

Interior Design

0.5 Credit
Course No. 561
Trimesters: 1

This course provides a foundation for students who are interested in pursuing a possible career in architecture, interior design, or art. Students will be able to identify various housing, furniture, and window styles. They will learn how to draw floor plans using traditional architectural tools and symbols. Using the principles of design, color, furnishings, fabric, and fixtures, students will design a variety of interior spaces on design boards and in 3D CAD software.

Technical Drawing & Specifications

0.5 Credit
Course No. 541
(Technical Drawing & Specifications: BMM 222) 3 Goodwin University Credits
Trimesters: 1

This course introduces the basic principles of engineering drawings. It addresses line types, orthographic projection, and isometric views that are used in industry standards. The six basic views of parts are designed to acquaint the student with a pictorial vision of a 3D part in a flat pattern view. Areas of study include: line types, orthographic projection, isometric views, fundamental tools of title block information, drawing standards, general and special notes such as quality assurance data, non-destructive testing, symbology, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing parameters, blueprint drawing abbreviations, linear units of measurement, rules of dimensioning, inclined surfaces, measurement of angles, holes and bolt hole patterns, drawings to scale, blueprint revisions, notes, 3d modeling, additive prototyping and 3d printing. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret basic prints and visualize the features of a part or system. Through hands-on exercises, students will apply these skills and processes associated with engineering drawings, 3d modeling, and 3D printing to communicate design intent.

Note: This is a college course articulated through Goodwin University. Upon successful completion of this course, students can apply for the course transcript.

Individual and Family Development 1

DHHS Credit Course No. 578
(Individual and Family Development: HDFS 1070) 3 UCONN Credits
Level 1
Trimesters: 2

This college-level course is highly recommended for students who are preparing for careers in education, human services, family studies, social work, and health occupations. It is an introduction to the general study of human development from conception through old age. The course examines physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth across the lifespan, emphasizing that development results from the interdependence of these areas at every stage. The course requires 40 hours beyond the classroom which could include an internship/extended learning experience. Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.

Note: This course is offered every other year. (Fall 2024, Fall 2026, Fall 2028, etc.)

Homework: The typical homework assignment in this course will take up to 60 minutes to complete.

Foundations of Engineering

0.5 Credit
Course No. 540
Trimesters: 1

Foundations of Engineering is an introductory course designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of Engineering. This hands-on, project-based course emphasizes the engineering design process and the skills and habits of mind that engineers find most essential in their work. A key approach will be the employment of an iterative design and development process to solve a variety of different challenges and/or problems. Group and individual lessons will engage students in creating ideas, developing innovations, conducting experiments, gathering and analyzing data, and constructing practical solutions in solving problems. An understanding of the engineering design process will prepare students for other courses within the Engineering & Technology career pathway

Computer Aided Manufacturing

0.5 Credit
Course No. 532
Trimesters: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Technical Drawing & Specifications or Foundations of Engineering

The design and manufacture of everyday items are ubiquitous in modern life, yet most students have not had the opportunity to experience the innovative nature of modern computer-aided manufacturing. This course is an introduction to how the use of computer technology is used within the manufacturing industry. The focus will be on engineering design, modeling and applications in automation, robotics, and numerical control. Using Computer Aided Design as a basis, students will be introduced to state-of-the art rapid prototyping machines such as 3D Printers, CNC Mills, automation robots and 3D scanners to produce prototypes in solving manufacturing challenges

Technical Drawing & Specifications

0.5 Credit
Course No. 541
(Technical Drawing & Specifications: BMM 222) 3 Goodwin University Credits
Trimesters: 1

This course introduces the basic principles of engineering drawings. It addresses line types, orthographic projection, and isometric views that are used in industry standards. The six basic views of parts are designed to acquaint the student with a pictorial vision of a 3D part in a flat pattern view. Areas of study include: line types, orthographic projection, isometric views, fundamental tools of title block information, drawing standards, general and special notes such as quality assurance data, non-destructive testing, symbology, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing parameters, blueprint drawing abbreviations, linear units of measurement, rules of dimensioning, inclined surfaces, measurement of angles, holes and bolt hole patterns, drawings to scale, blueprint revisions, notes, 3d modeling, additive prototyping and 3d printing. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret basic prints and visualize the features of a part or system. Through hands-on exercises, students will apply these skills and processes associated with engineering drawings, 3d modeling, and 3D printing to communicate design intent.

Note: This is a college course articulated through Goodwin University. Upon successful completion of this course, students can apply for the course transcript.

Robotics Engineering

0.5 Credit
Course No. 539
Trimesters: 1

Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of building and programming a robot. Implementing the Engineering Design Process throughout the course, students will work respectfully and responsibly with others in exchanging and evaluating ideas in building and programming a robot to perform a variety of tasks. Students will also be expected to document and analyze their performance throughout the process in evaluating progress of their robot as it performs in a variety of challenges.

Materials Processing

0.5 Credit
Course No. 521
Trimesters: 1

This course is designed to introduce students to general shop safety and practices associated with processing materials. Through hands-on exercises, students will learn how to safely use hand and power tools while working with both wood and metal. Students will focus on learning how to read procedure lists and working drawings in applying a variety of processing techniques to the building of a few projects. The projects are designed to give students as much experience as possible by using many different machines and tools. Emphasis is placed on safety, problem-solving, the proper use of tools, measuring, craftsmanship, and critical thinking.

Introduction to Video Production

0.5 Credit
Course No. 544
Trimesters: 1

This course introduces students to the basic concepts of video production technology.  Students start by learning basic camera operation and move on to become familiar with the complete video production process. During this course, cooperative activities are completed dealing with pre-production, camera operation, shot composition, microphones, and interviewing. A major portion of Introduction to T.V. Production is devoted to learning non-linear editing skills on Apple iMac computers and applying that knowledge towards the creation of several video projects. Students with career interests in the communication field would benefit from taking Introduction to T.V. Production.

Note: This is a college course articulated through Quinnipiac University. Upon successful completion of both this course and the Video Production course in the same school year, students can apply for the course transcript.

Video Production

0.5 Credit
Course No. 546
Trimesters: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Video Production or instructor approval for juniors & seniors.

This communication course is designed to provide students with an opportunity to learn and practice the processes involved in live television broadcasting and broadcast journalism. Students work in front of the camera as reporters and behind the scenes as directors and studio control room technicians. Multiple camera talk show productions are introduced as well as Apple’s Final Cut Pro X editing software. Students examine video production techniques including lighting, audio, color grading, studio camera work, and studio directing. Students will learn how to format scripts properly for broadcast news and will produce news segments for the statewide Fox 61 Student News Program.

Note: This is a college course articulated through Quinnipiac University. Upon successful completion of both this course and the Introduction to Video Production course in the same school year, students can apply for the course transcript.

Video Journalism
0.5 Credit
Course No. 550
Trimesters: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of T.V. Production.

This course will address advanced video and TV studio production with an emphasis on the application of electronic news-gathering techniques towards a weekly Tiger Talk school news production. Through lectures, hands-on labs, and projects, students will learn and apply studio control room and field production techniques. Students in Video Journalism will acquire technical knowledge and competencies in camera operation, lens theory, switching, advanced Apple Final Cut video editing, audio and tracking, lighting, picture composition, shot planning, continuity, scripting/writing, and interviewing. Students will also research possible careers in the communications industry.

Personal Finance

0.5 Credit
Course No. 496
Trimesters: 1

This course will prepare students to take an active role in their future finances. Students will learn to become financially responsible and learn that financial success is not about how much money you make, but about how much money you can save. Units of study will include financial planning, budgeting, paying taxes, understanding banking, managing credit, investing for retirement, and investing in the stock market. Students will also become familiar with stock market concepts and terminology by participating in an online stock simulation competition.

Personal Finance projects will be scored Pass/Fail using corresponding rubrics. All components of the project must meet passing requirements, but multiple attempts may be made as needed. Similar to Independent Project, a Mastery Based Diploma assessment is increasingly popular nation-wide; consequently, colleges and universities are accustomed to seeing Pass/Fail grades for similar courses.

Note: Credit in this course will count toward the Mastery Based Diploma Assessment and does not count towards CTE credit requirements.

Introduction to Business

0.5 Credit
Course No. 462
Trimesters: 1

This course is designed to introduce students to different disciplines of business so that they can learn to be effective business leaders. Students will explore and discuss business topics related to marketing, international business, accounting, business law, and entrepreneurship. Students will also develop personal business skills such as time management, professional growth, and communication. Students will learn to leverage a variety of technology for efficient business use.

Business Law

0.5 Credit
Course No. 498
Trimesters: 1

This course prepares students to develop an understanding of rights and obligations in meeting the legal demands of society as individuals, employees, and as business owners. Students will be able to identify the legal and ethical issues that result from business decisions and practices. Topics covered in this course include torts, contracts, the court system, intellectual property, employment law, and how to form your own business including creation of an LLC.

Materials Processing

0.5 Credit
Course No. 521
Trimesters: 1

This course is designed to introduce students to general shop safety and practices associated with processing materials. Through hands-on exercises, students will learn how to safely use hand and power tools while working with both wood and metal. Students will focus on learning how to read procedure lists and working drawings in applying a variety of processing techniques to the building of a few projects. The projects are designed to give students as much experience as possible by using many different machines and tools. Emphasis is placed on safety, problem-solving, the proper use of tools, measuring, craftsmanship, and critical thinking.

Computer Aided Manufacturing  

0.5 Credit
Course No. 532
Trimesters: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Technical Drawing & Specifications or Foundations of Engineering

The design and manufacture of everyday items are ubiquitous in modern life, yet most students have not had the opportunity to experience the innovative nature of modern computer-aided manufacturing. This course is an introduction to how the use of computer technology is used within the manufacturing industry. The focus will be on engineering design, modeling, and applications in automation, robotics, and numerical control. Using Computer Aided Design as a basis, students will be introduced to state-of-the-art rapid prototyping machines such as 3D Printers, CNC Mills, automation robots, and 3D scanners to produce prototypes in solving manufacturing challenges

Robotics Engineering    

0.5 Credit
Course No. 539
Trimesters: 1

Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of building and programming a robot. Implementing the Engineering Design Process throughout the course, students will work respectfully and responsibly with others in exchanging and evaluating ideas in building and programming a robot to perform a variety of tasks. Utilizing engineering notebooks as a tool, students will also be expected to document and analyze their performance throughout the process in evaluating the progress of their robot as it performs in a variety of challenges. 

Technical Drawing & Specifications
(Technical Drawing & Specifications: BMM 222) 3 Goodwin University Credits

0.5 Credit
Course No. 541
Trimesters: 1

This course introduces the basic principles of engineering drawings. It addresses line types, orthographic projection, and isometric views that are used in industry standards. The six basic views of parts are designed to acquaint the student with a pictorial vision of a 3D part in a flat pattern view. Areas of study include: line types, orthographic projection, isometric views, fundamental tools of title block information, drawing standards, general and special notes such as quality assurance data, non-destructive testing, symbology, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing parameters, blueprint drawing abbreviations, linear units of measurement, rules of dimensioning, inclined surfaces, measurement of angles, holes and bolt hole patterns, drawings to scale, blueprint revisions, notes, 3d modeling, additive prototyping, and 3d printing. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret basic prints and visualize the features of a part or system. Through hands-on exercises, students will apply these skills and processes associated with engineering drawings, 3d modeling, and 3D printing to communicate design intent.

Note: This is a college course articulated through Goodwin University. Upon successful completion of this course, students can apply for the course transcript.