About Applied Arts

  • Family and Consumer Sciences, and Technology Education

    APPLIED ARTS DEPARTMENT

    The Applied Arts mission is to provide hands-on, real-world experiences in architecture, design, engineering, technology, automotives, culinary/hospitality, and child development. Students develop essential problem-solving, leadership, and critical-thinking skills by working together to create innovative solutions to real-life challenges. Courses are designed to inspire students on college, career, and exploratory paths. Contemplate, innovate, create: these are the tenets of New Trier's Applied Arts program.

    Objectives

    The objectives of the Applied Arts program are to develop the following 21st century skills:

    • Design thinking
    • Critical thinking
    • Problem-solving
    • Collaboration
    • Creativity
    • Self-direction
    • Adaptability
    • Global awareness
    • Responsibility
    • Written and Oral Communication
      (Adopted from Harvard Education Letter, Teaching 21st Century Skills)

    Please read below to learn more specifically about the objectives for the three Applied Arts Divisions: Driver Education, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Technology Education

    FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES

    Objectives

    The objectives of the Family and Consumer Sciences are to:

    • identify and examine values, self image, goals and needs;
    • prepare for life management: manage resources by conserving energy, time and money through effective planning and decision making;
    • create an environment where theory, practice, and work experiences allow students to apply knowledge to make informed decisions;
    • explore positive approaches to potential problems and solutions.

    TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION

    Objectives

    The objectives of the Technology Education Department are to:

    • Provide students with the opportunity to explore, through hands-on experiences, the fields of engineering, technology, architecture, technology, design, communication, energy, manufacturing, automotives, and transportation;
    • foster an awareness of technology and its impact on society and the environment;
    • use technical information and skills to solve problems related to an advanced technological society;
    • enhance problem-solving skills, decision making, creativity, and collaboration skills.

    Applied Arts Related Activities

    • SWEETS (Society of Women in Engineering, Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Science)
    • Club Sandwich (Northfield)
    • Science Olympiad
    • Gaming Club
    • FCCLA (Family Career and Community Leaders of America)
    • In the Mood for Food Club
    • Robotics Club
    • Architecture Club
    • Cooking Club (Northfield)
    • Fashion Club (Northfield)