Major Concepts/Content: The welding course is designed to teach current welding practices with emphasis given to shop experience rather than to formal classroom theory.  Exercises allow students to achieve proficiency in the basic welding methods of arc welding, oxyacetylene welding, and cutting.  Students learn the basic equipment, welding positions, and joint design.  The content includes, but is not limited to, the study of the following: appreciation for the role of welding technology-related subjects in our culture; the integration of skills, attitudes, and knowledge necessary to fulfill the qualifications for an industrial related job in industry or in education; the application of safety and health procedures; and the refinement of manipulative skills and technical knowledge necessary for potential licensing.

Major Instructional Activities: Instructional activities used in a laboratory setting will provide hands-on experience with welding equipment and materials related to the course content.  Students will complete welding activities, investigate content-related occupations, visit welding related businesses, present ideas and information orally and in writing, and assume leadership roles within the framework of the laboratory. Emphasis will be placed on self-concepts, values, decision-making skills, employer expectations, and work skills.

Major Evaluative Techniques: Students will be required to pass laboratory safety tests as well as content- and process-related tests.  Welding activities/projects will be evaluated for completeness and accuracy.  Written and oral reports will be evaluated for content and form.  Class participation will be evaluated using criteria such as working conscientiously on a project, using materials properly, conscientiously assisting others, working independently, offering solutions to problems, and completing projects.

Essential Objectives: Upon completion of the welding course, students should be able to

• Successfully demonstrate and apply safety and health procedures
• Develop proficiencies in the basic welding/cutting methods and equipment such as arc welding, MIG/TIG, oxy-acetylene, plasma, etc
• Refine manipulative skills and technical knowledge necessary for potential licensing.