Biomechatronics, a program of Exploration offered only at Markham Woods Middle School, offers students a unique introduction to the interdisciplinary study of anatomy, physiology, electronics, robotics, and computer programming through research and collaboration. This problem-based approach to learning builds students' skills in critical thinking and analysis. All Markham Woods students can take these courses.
To learn more, watch this video: Biomechatronics!
Why Biomechatronics?
Biomechatronics offers many opportunities for our students at Markham Woods that will appeal to many of our families. Because Biomechatronics combines biology, mechanics, and electronics, it gives us a way to provide students with skills and knowledge that can be used many different ways.
Students who complete the program will leave with experience in:
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Anatomy and Physiology,
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Electronics and Circuitry,
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Robotics and Computer Coding,
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As well as Collaboration and Problem Solving.
These different skill sets can help students find their passion and interests, which can turn into career and college paths in the future.
Biomechatronics As A Stepping Stone
The many skills and areas of knowledge Biomechatronics will introduce to students create opportunities for students to continue their studies beyond their time at Markham Woods Middle School. One of the goals of the program is to help students find their passions and create plans for their futures to make sure they are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. Biomechatronics students could create their own pathway into a number of different exciting opportunities.
There are several high school magnet programs that specialize in areas of study similar to what the students will learn in Biomechatronics. Crooms Academy for Information Technology and the Seminole High School Health Academy are great opportunities for students to take their skills and experiences in Biomechatronics at Markham and build them into promising careers. Seminole State College and UCF also offer degrees in engineering technology and robotics. The Seminole Technology Business Incubation Center and Sanford Industrial Park offer career opportunities to students who have learned soldering, circuitry, and microfitting from the Biomechatronics program. Careers in robotics, computer programming, and electronics will only grow in the next few decades, and the Biomechatronics program can be a stepping stone for students interested in those careers.
Program Components
Students in each grade level at Markham Woods Middle School will have opportunities to take courses that will help them understand and develop skills in the field of Biomechatronics.
Introductory Courses
In 6th Grade, students can take courses that develop background knowledge and skills for engineering and innovation. Students in these courses will learn to collaborate with one another to solve problems as well as begin learning the principles of robotics and computer coding. These courses are introductory and will give students of all backgrounds an opportunity to start their work in Biomechatronics. Courses offered to our 6th graders are Computational Thinking 1 and Global Solutions and Innovations.
Exploration Courses
In 7th and 8th Grade, students can take courses that build on what they learned in 6th grade to prepare them for advanced work in computers, robotics, and biomechatronics. Students will advance their knowledge of computer coding and electronic soldering, as well as begin to understand the parts of the human body and their functions. They also have the opportunity to "Live on their own" and experience the trials and tribulations life has to offer, while learning about potential careers from the people within them.
Biomechatronics Capstone
If students want the ultimate experience the Biomechatronics Program of Exploration has to offer, they can take the Biomechatronics Capstone course. Through a partnershp with the Florida Prosperity Partnership (FPP), students will take the knowledge they have acquired and apply it to solve a problem presented by FPP. Students will have an experience unique to Markham Woods Middle School where they will learn the problem solving process, design theory, grant writing, and public speaking.
Are you a Member of the Biomechatronics (or Related) Field?
Do you work in a field related to technology, medicine, or mechatronics and want to share your knowledge and experience with our students? We are constantly looking for guest speakers to provide useful information to any one of our courses. Please use the contact information below and let us know!
More Information
For more information regarding the Biomechatronics Program of Exploration, check out Markham Woods Middle School's website at www.mwms.scps.k12.fl.us under "courses", or e-mail one of the following individuals:
Registration, Scheduling, and Business Partnerships: Dr. Eric Basilo, Assistant Principal, [email protected]
Computer Coding, Robotics, and the BMT Capstone course: Anita Neal-Okoro, BMT Faculty, [email protected]
Health: Anatomy and Physiology: Tom Stafford, BMT Faculty, [email protected]
CAD and 3D Printing and General Questions: Joseph Puccio, BMT Faculty, [email protected]
The Game of LIFE course and Guest Speaker Program: Lisa West, BMT Faculty, [email protected]