In today's world of technology it is easier than ever to compile large sums of data. But once that data has been collected, it does not do much good if we do not know how to analyze and interpret it.
Students will compare the information processing capabilities of a human brain and a computer in order to explore why computers seem to have faster reaction times.
Students will learn about elements on the periodic table, including ones instrumental to semiconductors, and how they are used to make electronic devices work.
Students will participate in a cleanroom simulation in order to learn about microchip contaminants that can impact the semiconductor manufacturing process, and the personal protective equipment (PPE - or “bunny suits”) that prevent contamination.
Students will learn how solar cells are manufactured and how they capture energy, as well as how to angle a solar panel to capture the most amount of energy possible.
Students will learn how computer chips get transformed from a brick of processed material into the items we associate with electronic devices, by addressing Photolithography, or the method of stenciling complex designs into silicon wafer.
By engaging in a real engineering design challenge, students will be able to experience a high-stakes competition to solve their challenge through troubleshooting.
Students will learn about the manufacturing methods used to transform raw Silicon into positively- and negatively-charged components, along with the function of diodes and transistors in a computing system.
Students will explore the properties of metalloids and explain why silicon is the most commonly used element in semiconductors.