Understanding a Designed World
We live in a world shaped by human creativity and actions. Our future depends on our understanding of the interplay between the designed and the natural worlds. This strand will address the abilities and understandings of science and technology in our increasingly changing world.

Goals
To provide workshops and presentations focusing on one or more of the following:
• Examining the role of the engineering design process in the science program.
• Providing models that prepare students for careers that integrate the STEM fields.
• Increasing awareness of quality tools and resources available for teaching science, technology, and design.
• Highlighting the benefits and consequences of design and technology on social, political, economic, and environmental systems.
• Promoting strategies for developing and applying creativity and innovation.

Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated on the extent that they:
• Show evidence of the integration of the STEM fields.
• Align with one or more strand goals.
• Align with state and national science education standards (NSES and Benchmarks).
• Are based on current and available research and issues in science.
• Involve participants through activities and/or discussion.