Service learning oriented pre-engineering programs and their impact on non-traditional engineering students

This paper describes and analyzes a new program implemented by Engineers Without Borders-USA (EWB), JETS, Westlake High School (Atlanta, GA), and the Georgia Institute of Technology that introduces pre-college students to the field of engineering through the use of EWB-focused service learning engineering activities. This initiative differs from other high school engineering programs that emphasize competitions in that it highlights important engineering design concepts by rooting the students' motivation in the desire to help those in need. This emphasis on engineering-themed service projects allows for real-world reinforcement of sustainable engineering practices and promotes the education of ethically responsible and internationally aware students. We postulate that this move away from competition-based motivations and towards community service will be particularly appealing to non-traditional engineering students such as minorities and women.