Online Learning Resource Center (OLRC) for CTE

Online Learning Instructional Content for Construction Secondary Educators

Agriculture Business STEM Construction Communications Manufacturing

EdPuzzle
FREE - EDpuzzle offers a standard, safe learning tool used to place interactive content from video lessons (YouTube, TED, or custom). Content can be personalized, and access requires a login.

PhET: Free online physics, biology, chemistry, Earth science and math
FREE - PhET simulations, using graphics and measurement instruments, provide interactive, research-based simulations for STEM education. Includes a process to create your lesson plans integrating the simulation, and real world examples of instructors using the simulations in the classroom.

Construction

Construction Loader Simulator
FREE - The Excavator Simulator game mimics driving the heavy equipment in real life. Game play involves saving a construction site and guaranteeing the safety of the construction workers.

SIMBUILD
FREE Demo, plus FEE for game technology - Coursework covers industry specific construction skills - provides immediate student feedback and progress dashboards for instructors. Topics include tools, framing, installation process, materials estimation and terminology. A similar track is available for metal workers and entry level machinists for manufacturing operations.

USDA: Soils Education
FREE - U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service - Soils, is part of the National Cooperative Soil Survey, an effort of Federal and State agencies, universities, and professional societies to deliver science-based soil information. Includes age appropriate videos and webinars, soil maps and learning materials.

Woodwork Simulator
FREE Demo with Fee based simulator - Woodwork Simulator provides tools to work with wood in remarkably realistic ways. Using a range of hand tools, it is possible to saw with accurate precision, chisel to the desired depth, drill without restraint, plane wood to a smooth finish, or carve intricate designs on the lathe.

STEM Construction

PBS: Building Big
FREE - this five-part PBS television series and website from WGBH Boston covers what it takes to build bridges, domes, skyscrapers, dams and tunnels. Content includes interactive labs, interviews with actual engineers, and an educator's guide with hands on activities.

STEM Construction Communications Manufacturing

PBS: Design Squad
FREE - Through videos, real world challenges and exercises, PBS "Design Squad" teams show engineering as a fun, collaborative effort. Contains lesson plans for educators, including teaching strategy for guiding and motivating kids through the design process.  

To provide feedback on OLRC or suggest other resources to be added, please send an email to OLRCfeedback@minnstate.edu.