Article

Technology and Practice in a Historical Context: Building the Civil War Submarine Pioneer

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Abstract

Activities that replicate lost historical artifacts provide students with a unique opportunity to explore the origins of present day technology. Understanding the evolution of manufacturing technologies plays an important role in teaching real-world concepts and skills to technology students. Employers are interested in students that have had industrial exposure as well as a depth and breadth of academic experiences. Community outreach projects can be one of the main avenues of student success in this arena. As Dewey (1938) noted, life experiences and knowledge are inseparable. This article focuses on an academic service learning project performed in conjunction with the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum and regional industries. Utilizing historical records from the 19th century provided Southeastern Louisiana University students with the opportunity to use modern technology in the reconstruction of a Civil War submarine.

Keywords: CAD|composite materials|machine design|teaching methods|welding

How to Cite:

Bonnette, R., (2005) “Technology and Practice in a Historical Context: Building the Civil War Submarine Pioneer”, Journal of Industrial Technology 21(1).