March - Vol 70, No 6 - International Technology and Engineering ...

Classroom Challenge
First Aid Challenge
By Harry T. Roman
Often, everyday products
provide examples of technology
education in action.
Introduction
In this challenge, students will be asked to develop a design
for an off-the-road first aid kit, the kind that can be stored in
a recreational vehicle (RV).
Preparing for the Challenge
There is a bounty of rich literature on first aid that can be
tapped. Information abounds in books, videos, pamphlets,
brochures, and via the Internet. This should be mined first
to understand the most critical aspects of first aid . . . boiling
it down to its most essential elements to preserve life in the
event of emergencies in isolated areas. There is also a wealth
of information available in your school library, and perhaps
through the nurse’s office. First aid courses taught in your
school are yet another excellent source of information.
Consider bringing in members of the community who
are knowledgeable in first aid materials, equipment, and
techniques to help orient and educate the students, such as
visitors and speakers from:
• Fire department personnel
• Paramedics
• Police
• Emergency services and ambulance providers
• Hospital emergency room personnel
• Doctors/nurses
18 • Technology and Engineering Teacher • March 2011