9. Why Developed / Problems / Issues Targeted |
What are the main aims or objectives of the initiative? Is it designed to address any particular problems or issues? If so, please specify what these are. | The program is intended to create awareness with high school students of the variety of careers in various manufacturing sectors. In addition, to answer employers needs to have employees who can communicate well, work in a team atmosphere and use critical thinking skills to solve problems through innovation. |
10. Key Features / Content
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Please describe the main features of the program, focusing in particular on those aspects that are particularly innovative, effective or promising. | Students had to work together to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of their team, work together to establish a process and timeline to complete the task within budget and test systems to ensure the hovercraft could perform to specifications. |
| 11. Funding Mechanisms | Please describe the type of funding mechanism used for this initiative (e.g. provider’s own budget, service contract, grant, co-funding etc.) | Funding flowed through the Advanced Manufacturing Initiative. Additional funds were secured from the Technical Vocational Initiative. A committee of volunteer stakeholders guided the process. |
| 12. Organizational Dimensions | Please describe any key organizational dimensions of this initiative, e.g. delivery mechanisms, number of trainers, reporting structure etc. | Administrators endorsed the program and engaged teachers to lead the students. However, it was a student driven initiative and teachers provided students class time, access to equipment and guidance when required. |
| 13. Partnerships Integral or Related | Are there any partner organizations involved in the delivery of the initiative? If so, please provide brief details of the partnership arrangements. | Partnerships are integral to the programs success. These partnerships start with high schools, colleges and universities. Administrators must endorse the program first, teachers will need to collaborate to work with the student team members and industry provides mentorship. |
| 14. Stakeholder Involvement | What mechanisms are used, if any, to involve key stakeholders involved in the development, delivery or evaluation of the initiative? Which groups of stakeholders are involved? | All stakeholders are represented on an advisory committee to ensure program development will be consistent with education initiatives. Stakeholders include: high school teachers and administrators, college and university department representatives, government and industry. |