Projects

Project-based learning (PBL) is a long-proven, effective educational approach well-aligned with the needs of 21st century learners. PBL’s emphasis is on collaborative, experiential learning in the development of a challenging project meeting assigned criteria. Educational theorists and employers agree that among the most important skills of 21st century workers will require critical-thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity, which are often referred to as the four Cs. ACP utilizes and promotes PBL educational theory in all of its featured projects because of its proven effects and pertinence to current employment realities.

Overview

ACP’s pragmatic outlook, on design and development of projects for impacting change from K-universities, is founded on strong underpinnings of the core principles of competency-based learning. ACP’s research methodology and dissemination strategies emphasize alignment of clear goals tied to demonstrable workforce competency and needs. From curricular development to workforce opportunities, ACP is actively engaged in conducting research and furthering work to promote promising careers in BAS. Our collaborative mindset and strategic partnership approach provides us with an opportunity to cultivate a culture of highlighting the prominence of opportunities in BAS, a 21st century sector evolved on building blocks of STEM and sustainability.

Featured Projects

Curriculum Development Best Practices

In partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) ACP, has engaged community colleges with cross-sections of energy-related technical programs in a curriculum development pilot initiative aligned with current DOE and NIBS research.

Unfortunately, instructors at community and technical colleges often lack the training and expertise in curriculum development best practices, which then becomes a limiting factor in program efficacy. ACP is contributing its long-standing curriculum development to this important project which has the goal of bringing positive change to curriculum development practices in the nation’s community and technical programs.

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A STEP in STEM

ACP has entered into a collaborative partnership with the Siemens Foundation to launch a new project to fill skilled positions in STEM fields and the building automation systems industry. The collaboration between the two organizations will result in an increased flow of new talent entering into the field. A STEP in STEM Project hopes to promote diversity and achieve inclusivity within STEM fields and the BAS industry by providing equitable access to educational programs and career opportunities within the BAS industry. The project also aims to provide students with the tools and resources necessary for them to succeed in the BAS industry by disseminating successful training models, which build awareness of middle-skills career pathways and promote educational equity among underserved populations, thus reducing the opportunity gap. In addition, the Project will provide student success grants and support services to minority students studying in these fields.

To this end, ACP will launch a targeted campaign in secondary school districts and institutions of higher learning to increase awareness about STEM, with particular focus on BAS, as lucrative and sustainable career pathways.