|
Communication
Technology Unit Overview
Why are we
learning
about communication
technology?
Communication
technologies are systems that
move information from one place to another. These systems vary
widely, and can range from simple devices in our homes to complex
satellite networks in space. Communication engineers seek to
optimize the capability and efficiency of these systems using existing
and emerging technologies.
Engineering
students must understand the basic components of these systems, and
have awareness of some examples of existing and emerging technologies
that contribute to our ability to communicate.
Which components
of a communication
system will we be able to identify and describe?
Each
component
makes a contribution to the
success of the communication system. Among the components that
may be included in a communication system are: source, encoder,
decoder, transmitter, receiver, destination, storage, and retrieval.
Will there
be any
activities in class to
help us master these ideas?
• We will
consider
and record examples of
specific communication systems.
• We will
identify
components within these systems and describe their
contribution to the system.
• Students will
draw
and evaluate diagrams of communication systems to
visualize the path of communication and to identify the components.
• Students will
use
the Internet to identify and explore an emerging
technology in communication.
• Students will
create a PowerPoint slide show (or other presentation
medium) to summarize and display information about their chosen
emerging communication technology.
• We will
practice
written responses for an open response test item to
reinforce students' mastery of the unit concepts, and to prepare for
the Grade 8 Science and Technology/Engineering MCAS test.
Will there
be a
test?
Students will be assessed
on the accuracy of their labeled diagrams, and the thoroughness and
quality of their emerging technology presentation. Students
will also complete a vocabulary (fill in the blank) quiz, and a brief written open response test item.
Which
Massachusetts learning standards
will we cover?
Science and
Technology/Engineering
Curriculum Framework 3:
3.1
Identify
and explain the components of a communication
system, i.e., source, encoder, transmitter, receiver, decoder, storage,
retrieval, and destination.
3.3
Identify
and compare communication technologies and systems,
i.e., audio, visual, printed, and mass communication.
|
