👷‍♂️ Thinking Like a Rocket Scientist and Engineer: Unlock the secrets of First Principles Thinking, Physics, Engineering and Problem-Solving Skills

In this lesson, we will introduce the course and the concept of first principles thinking, and how it can be used to solve real-world problems.It is important to note that this course is not just about learning how to think like an engineer, it's about learning how to think like an innovative problem solver, and it is for that reason that this course can be applied to any field. This course is designed to give you the tools to analyze any problem and find a solution through the use of first principles thinking.

First principles thinking is a problem-solving method that involves breaking down complex problems into their basic components and analyzing them. This approach is often used in fields such as physics, engineering, and business to identify underlying principles and create innovative solutions.

Lateral thinking is a problem-solving technique that focuses on generating new and unconventional ideas to solve problems. It is the opposite of vertical thinking, which involves solving problems by applying known solutions or techniques. Lateral thinking is about breaking free from established patterns of thinking and approaching problems from different angles.

First principles thinking is a problem-solving method that involves breaking down a complex system or problem into its fundamental components, and then using that understanding to come up with new and innovative solutions. One of the most notable examples of first principles thinking in action is the development of reusable rockets by SpaceX.

The Pareto principle, also known as the 80/20 rule, is a principle that states that roughly 80% of effects come from 20% of the causes. It is named after economist Vilfredo Pareto, who observed that roughly 80% of the land in Italy was owned by 20% of the population.

Problem-solving and creative thinking are important skills that can be applied to a wide range of situations in both personal and professional settings. These skills involve the ability to analyze a problem, generate ideas, and come up with a solution that is both effective and innovative.

Reflective journals are a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. They can be used to explore personal assumptions, beliefs, and values, as well as to track personal growth and progress over time. In this lesson, we will discuss what reflective journals are, how to use them, and the benefits of incorporating them into your personal and professional development.

Neil deGrasse Tyson's life advice is about empowering others to think independently and critically, about making the world a better place, and about creating meaning in our own lives. He encourages us to always be learning, to never be satisfied with the status quo, and to always strive to make a positive impact on the world.

In this lesson, we will explore the concept of connecting the dots as a powerful approach to learning. We will discuss the benefits of this approach, as well as some key strategies you can use to facilitate learning by connecting the dots.

Critical thinking is a crucial skill in today's fast-paced and constantly changing world. It allows us to evaluate information, consider multiple perspectives, and make well-informed decisions. In this lesson, we will explore the importance of critical thinking and how we can develop this skill in ourselves and our children. In this lesson, we will delve into the ways in which STEM education and STEAM activities can foster critical thinking skills in learners of all ages. From conducting experiments and building machines to creating art and musical performances, we will explore the many ways in which these interdisciplinary activities can challenge our minds and encourage us to think critically.

Electric vehicles (EVs) work by using an electric motor to turn the wheels, rather than an internal combustion engine (ICE). The electric motor is powered by a rechargeable battery pack, which stores electrical energy and delivers it to the motor as needed. When you press the accelerator pedal in an EV, it sends a signal to the electric motor to start turning the wheels.

In today's job market, it is essential for students to start preparing for their future careers early on. By staying informed about the job market, considering their interests and skills, gaining practical experience, and continuing to learn and stay up to date, students can position themselves for success in a range of growing industries. Through research, assessment, and hands-on experience, students can explore their options and find a career path that is meaningful and fulfilling.

In this lesson, we will explore the various obstacles that prevent girls and young women from fully engaging in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. We will also discuss some of the ways in which these barriers can be overcome, and the importance of increasing the participation of girls and young women in STEM subjects. By the end of this lesson, you should have a better understanding of the challenges faced by girls and young women in STEM, and some ideas for how to support and encourage their participation in these fields.

Join us on our open server to share your progress and ask questions, engage and have fun with others and receive feedback. On the server, there are specific channels for each topic, where you can share your content and read what other members and course authors have posted. This is a great way to connect with others with the same passions and learn from each other's experiences and insights.

An engineer is a professional who uses science and math to design, build, and improve various types of systems and structures. Engineers play a vital role in many different fields, such as transportation, construction, energy, and technology.

The engineering process is a systematic approach that engineers use to design, build, and improve various types of systems and structures. It is a process that helps engineers to organize their thoughts and ideas and to make sure that they are considering all of the important factors when designing a project.

The engineering design process is a common series of steps that engineers use in creating functional products and processes. The process is highly iterative, parts of the process often need to be repeated many times before another can be entered, though the part(s) that get iterated and the number of such cycles in any given project may vary.

The scientific method is a systematic approach to research that is used to investigate phenomena, acquire new knowledge, or correct and integrate previous knowledge. It is a way of thinking about and studying the natural world that is based on empirical evidence and logical reasoning. It is an iterative process that allows scientists to build upon the knowledge of previous generations and continually improve our understanding of the natural world. 

The engineering process is a series of steps that engineers follow to solve problems and create new products or designs. One of the first steps in the engineering process is defining the problem. When defining a problem, engineers first need to identify what the problem is. This may involve gathering information, researching the issue, and talking to people who are affected by the problem. Once the problem has been identified, engineers need to analyze the problem to understand its causes and effects. This may involve breaking down the problem into smaller parts, creating diagrams or models to help visualize the problem, and identifying any constraints or limitations that will affect how the problem can be solved.

Analyzing real-world problems using first principles thinking is a powerful approach that can help you understand complex systems and find innovative solutions. First principles thinking involves breaking down a problem or system into its fundamental components and then analyzing each component separately. By understanding the underlying principles at work, you can develop a deeper understanding of the problem and identify new ways to solve it.

In this lesson, we will explore the importance of asking good questions and the role that curiosity plays in the learning process. As we delve into this topic, we will be discussing the concept of good questions, the value of curiosity in learning, and strategies for encouraging both ourselves and others. We will also be exploring the role of innovation and forward-thinking in the learning process and the importance of questioning in solving problems and navigating change. Throughout this lesson, we will be utilizing a variety of resources, including the popular science fiction novel "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams and its memorable quote about the answer to life, the universe, and everything. We will also be engaging in a range of activities, including open-ended discussions, hands-on exploration and experimentation, and creative projects.

When faced with a problem, it's essential to understand the importance of researching and gathering information to find a solution. Research is the process of collecting and analyzing data to gain a better understanding of a problem or issue. It involves using various methods, such as interviews, surveys, experiments, and observations, to gather information.

Design thinking is a problem-solving approach that focuses on understanding the needs and perspectives of users, and using that knowledge to create innovative solutions to complex problems. It is a holistic, human-centred approach to innovation that involves a series of steps or phases, including:

A checklist is an essential tool in the engineering process. It is a list of tasks or items that need to be completed or checked to ensure that a project or process is completed correctly and efficiently. Checklists are used in a variety of fields, including engineering, construction, aviation, and healthcare, to ensure that all necessary steps are taken and no important details are overlooked.

When trying to solve a problem, it's important to come up with multiple solutions. This is because there may be more than one way to solve a problem and it's important to explore all options before deciding on the best solution. In this lesson, we'll explore the process of generating solutions and how to evaluate them.

In this lesson, we learned about the importance of coming up with multiple solutions when trying to solve a problem. As engineers, it's important to brainstorm more than one solution to a single problem, so that if one solution doesn't work, there are other options to test. 

Defining success is an important step in the problem-solving process. Success is the achievement of a goal or the completion of a task. In order to define success, you need to understand what you're trying to accomplish and set clear, measurable goals.

Creativity and innovation are essential elements in the field of engineering. Engineers are problem-solvers and they use their skills, knowledge, and creativity to design and develop new and improved products, processes, and systems. Creativity and innovation in engineering can be seen in the development of new technologies, the creation of new products, and the improvement of existing ones.

Safety is an essential aspect of engineering and is critical to the well-being of individuals, communities, and the environment. Engineers have a responsibility to design and build systems, structures, and products that are safe for the people who use them and for the environment in which they operate. This lesson will provide an overview of the key principles of safety in engineering and the steps that engineers can take to ensure safety in their work.

In this lesson, we will explore how this mindset can be used to overcome obstacles and achieve goals in the field of engineering. We will discuss the importance of questioning limitations and considering different variables when facing problems or challenges. We will also explore how self-belief and perseverance play a crucial role in the decision-making process and problem-solving in engineering. By the end of this lesson, you will have a better understanding of how to use the "what if" mentality in your engineering projects, and how to consider different possibilities and variables to find the best solution. So, let's get started and learn how to think outside the box in engineering!

Using trials and errors is a powerful tool that engineers use to identify and solve problems with their solutions. Experimentation is an iterative process that involves trying different things, making adjustments based on the results, and learning from our mistakes. Identifying the variables being tested and keeping a record of the results are key principles of experimentation. By using the scientific method and experimentation, we can learn from our mistakes and improve our solutions.

Failure is an important part of the engineering process. Failure points are specific points in a design or solution where something is likely to break or fail. By identifying these failure points, engineers can make adjustments and improvements to their designs to make them stronger and more reliable. Failure allows engineers to learn from their mistakes and use that knowledge to improve their designs. Failure is not always a bad thing, it's a necessary step in the process of finding a better solution.

Identifying and addressing failure points is an important part of the engineering process. Engineers use models and trials to identify potential failure points and then analyze the results to make adjustments and improvements to their solutions. This process is repeated until the solution or design performs as desired. Failure points are specific points in a design or solution where something is likely to break or fail. By identifying and addressing these failure points, engineers can improve the overall performance and reliability of their solutions and designs.

In this lesson, we will explore the challenges engineers face when conducting trials and testing solutions to problems. We will learn how to work with limited resources and still effectively test and isolate variables to find the best solution.

Simple machines are devices that use a single force to do work. There are six types of simple machines: lever, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle. These simple machines can be used individually or in combination to create more complex machines.

In this lesson, we will explore the various elements that make up a successful workshop, including the tools and equipment you will need, the importance of organization and collaboration, and the value of learning and experimentation. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast, artist, or scientist, having the right tools and a supportive environment is essential for creating and building. By the end of this lesson, you will have a better understanding of how to set up and maintain a workshop that is well-equipped, organized, and supportive of your projects and goals. 

In this lesson, we will explore the process of designing and building things like machines, systems, or structures to help solve problems. Engineers are responsible for coming up with solutions to all sorts of problems, and their solutions are used in our daily life. We will look at a specific problem, the challenge of retrieving a phone that was dropped in a storm drain, and use engineering to find a solution. Throughout this lesson, we will learn about the steps of the engineering process, the importance of considering different solutions, and the use of prototypes and testing to optimize the success of the solution. Finally, we learn about Robotics and the different fields of applications.

The history of rockets dates back to ancient times when people used simple rockets for ceremonial and military purposes. The first rockets were made from bamboo tubes filled with gunpowder, and were used by the Chinese as early as the 13th century. These early rockets were not very powerful or accurate, but they were a significant advancement over other weapons of the time.

Aerospace engineering is the primary field of engineering concerned with the development of aircraft and spacecraft. It has two major and overlapping branches: aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering. Avionics engineering is similar but deals with the electronics side of aerospace engineering. “Aeronautical engineering” was the original term for the field. As flight technology advanced to include vehicles operating in outer space, the broader term “aerospace engineering” has come into common use. Aerospace engineering, particularly the astronautics branch, is often colloquially referred to as “rocket science”.

Rocket science experiments and explosive demonstrations involve potentially hazardous materials and procedures, and they can be dangerous if not handled properly

A water rocket experiment typically involves building a simple rocket using a plastic bottle and launching it using water and compressed air as the propulsion system. The experiment can be used to demonstrate various principles of rocketry and physics, such as the relationship between thrust, pressure, and the velocity of a rocket. Meanwhile, our heroes will try to build a record-breaking water rocket using simple and recycled materials and attempt to break a world record in the Class E category. Follow along to learn more about the process of building and launching a water rocket, and the principles of rocket science and physics involved.

A rocketry club is a group of individuals who are interested in rocketry and come together to learn more about it and build and launch rockets. These clubs can be found at schools, universities, or in the community and typically have a faculty advisor or mentor who provides guidance and support.

The model rocket stability swing test is a simple and practical method for evaluating the stability of a model rocket.

The motion of an aircraft through the air can be explained and described by physical principles discovered over 300 years ago by Sir Isaac Newton. Newton worked in many areas of mathematics and physics.

Understanding the basic principles of physics can be a challenging task for many students. However, once these principles are mastered, they can be applied to problem-solving in a wide range of fields, from engineering to medicine. In this lesson, we will explore the fundamental concepts of physics and how they can be used to solve real-world problems.

Analyzing real-world problems and identifying the physics principles at play is an important skill for understanding and solving a wide range of problems in our everyday lives. Physics is the branch of science that deals with the study of matter, energy, and their interactions. By understanding the physics principles at play in a real-world problem, we can better understand the underlying causes of the problem and develop effective solutions.

In this lesson, we will explore how using this powerful approach can help us to better understand and solve economic problems. By breaking down complex economic issues into their most basic components and understanding the underlying principles, we will learn how to develop new solutions that are not limited by existing assumptions or paradigms. We will also examine the concept of money and financial independence, and how managing our money can lead to greater freedom and choice in our lives. By the end of this lesson, you will have a deeper understanding of the principles of economics and how to apply them to your own financial situation.

Inflation is an increase in the general price level of goods and services in an economy over a period of time. When the general price level rises, each unit of currency buys fewer goods and services; consequently, inflation reflects a reduction in the purchasing power of money – a loss of real value in the medium of exchange and unit of account within an economy. A chief measure of price inflation is the inflation rate, the annualized percentage change in a general price index (normally the consumer price index) over time.

Brainstorming is a widely used technique for generating ideas and solving problems in a group setting. The process involves generating a large number of ideas in a short period of time, without worrying about whether they are good or bad. The goal is to come up with as many ideas as possible and then evaluate them later.

First principles thinking is a powerful method for generating a wide range of ideas and evaluating their potential. It is a way of breaking down complex problems or systems into their fundamental building blocks and then using that understanding to create new solutions.

Mind mapping is a powerful tool that can help learners to organize and visualize information. A mind map is a diagram that uses a central idea or concept and branches out to show how different ideas or concepts are related. By creating a mind map, learners can see the connections between different pieces of information, making it easier to understand and remember. In this lesson, we will discuss how to create a mind map and use it to organize and visualize information.

This lesson will introduce students to the Six Thinking Hats method and the SWOT analysis, two decision-making tools that can help to create a more balanced and comprehensive approach to decision-making. Through practice and exploration, students will learn how to apply these tools to real-life problems and situations, and reflect on how emotions and biases may impact decision-making. Educators will have a list of activities that can be used in class to enhance the learning experience through teamwork and role-playing. All these activities and tools require critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Simulation and game-based learning are powerful tools for problem-solving, as they provide a safe and controlled environment for individuals to practice and apply their problem-solving skills.

First principles thinking is a method of problem-solving that involves breaking down complex problems into their fundamental building blocks and reasoning from there. This approach can be particularly useful in learning how to participate in simulations and games that test critical thinking skills and concepts such as incentives, risk, scarcity, and trade-offs.

Understanding the importance of developing a disposition towards learning and complexity is crucial for personal and professional growth and success. A disposition towards learning is an attitude or mindset that is characterized by a willingness to learn, explore, and grow, while a disposition towards complexity is the ability to embrace and make sense of complexity and uncertainty. Together, these dispositions allow individuals to navigate a rapidly changing and complex world and continuously improve and adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

In this lesson, we will explore the concept of embracing chaos and how it relates to problem-solving. We will define the term "embracing chaos" and discuss why it can be challenging for humans who often have a natural inclination toward predictability and stability. We will also delve into the concept of entropy and how it affects systems, as well as the importance of understanding and mitigating its effects. Furthermore, we will discuss the relationship between chaos and order, and how a deeper understanding of this relationship can lead to powerful problem-solving tools and strategies. Finally, we will explore the importance of experimentation and iterative problem-solving and the role of a growth mindset in problem-solving.

Systems thinking is a holistic approach to understanding and analyzing complex systems. It is a way of looking at the world that focuses on the relationships and interactions between the parts of a system, rather than just the individual parts themselves.

Welcome to this lesson on the importance of trust, a growth mindset, and learning from mistakes in STEM and in everyday life. These three concepts are essential for building strong, healthy relationships and fostering personal and professional growth. In this lesson, we will explore what each of these concepts means and how they can be applied in our daily lives. We will also provide ideas and activities that you can use to help foster trust, a growth mindset, and a culture of learning from mistakes in your own life and with others.

Moving from a passive to a proactive mindset can help you to overcome learned helplessness and achieve your goals. To do this, focus on the process, embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, seek feedback, and practice gratitude. By developing a growth mindset, you can transform your approach to challenges and setbacks and increase your chances of success.

In this lesson, we will discuss a tool that can be used to set and achieve goals in a more effective and efficient manner. The S.M.A.R.T. acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound, and following these guidelines can help to ensure that your goals are clear, achievable, and motivating.

In this lesson, we will be discussing the limitations and challenges of current design thinking and models, and how we as designers can adapt and improve our approach to tackle the complexities of our world. We will also be exploring ways to incorporate plurality, solution entropy, and a move beyond user-centered design in our practice.

Entrepreneurship and business thinking are essential for solving problems and driving innovation in today's fast-paced and ever-changing business environment. Entrepreneurs must be able to identify and analyze problems, develop effective solutions, recognize opportunities, and constantly come up with new and unique ideas. They must also have strong communication skills and the ability to effectively present and pitch their ideas.

In this video, Roland Frasier explains how using first-principle thinking can lead to amazing innovation within your business. He explores case studies and reveals how people like Elon Musk and Steve Jobs used first-principle thinking to craft their inspiring empires.

In this lesson, we will explore the entrepreneurial mindset of Elon Musk, one of the most influential business leaders of our time. Through his words and actions, Musk has demonstrated a unique approach to entrepreneurship and business that has inspired many entrepreneurs and business leaders to think differently about the possibilities of their ventures.

In this lesson, we will explore the connection between entrepreneurship and first principles thinking by participating in activities and discussions that focus on creating a business plan for a startup, analyzing case studies of successful businesses, and discussing the challenges and opportunities of starting a business.

In this lesson, we will explore how to effectively pitch ideas to investors, partners, and customers. We will cover the key elements of a successful pitch, including the importance of researching your audience, developing a clear and compelling narrative, using storytelling and visuals, highlighting the benefits, and being prepared to answer questions. We will also discuss the importance of practice, confidence, and passion in the pitching process.

"Learning by doing" is a teaching method that involves actively engaging with the material being learned, rather than just passively reading or listening to lectures. This approach can be especially effective for children, as it allows them to engage with the material in a hands-on way and apply what they are learning to real-world situations. This can help them better understand and retain the information, as well as develop important skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. In this lesson, we will explore the benefits of hands-on learning and teamwork, and discuss how sharing and communication can enhance the learning process. We will also look at the role of gamification in education and the ways in which video games can be used to teach complex problem-solving skills.

Teamwork and collaboration are vital for achieving success in any field. By working together, individuals can combine their unique skills and perspectives to achieve a common goal, leading to increased productivity, improved decision-making, and greater job satisfaction. Effective communication is the key to making teamwork and collaboration successful.

Working effectively in a team is essential for achieving success when solving real-world problems. Here are a few key principles to keep in mind when working in a team:

Teamwork and collaboration are critical to the success of any space mission, and this is especially true for complex space exploration tasks. In order to plan and execute a successful mission, a team of skilled individuals with different expertise and backgrounds must work together to ensure that all aspects of the mission are carefully considered and executed.

Building a spaghetti tower is a fun and engaging teamwork activity that can help improve collaboration and communication skills, and that can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of teamwork.

In this lesson, we will be discussing the TEAL (Technology-Enabled Active Learning) methodology, which is an approach to teaching and learning that utilizes technology and active learning techniques to engage and empower students. We will also be exploring the role of team building and 3D design in the TEAL approach.

Ethics refers to the principles and values that guide our behavior and decision-making. Making ethical decisions is crucial in all aspects of life, whether it be in personal relationships, the workplace, or in the larger community. Ethical decisions are those that are in line with our values and that consider the impact of our actions on others.

In this lesson, we will explore the importance of disagreement in human interaction and how to approach disagreements in a productive and meaningful way. We will learn about techniques for reshaping the way we talk to each other so we can start disagreeing productively and finding common ground. We will also explore the key components of constructive disagreements, such as active listening, the use of "I" statements, and being open to changing one's own perspective. By the end of this lesson, you will have the tools and strategies to approach disagreements in a way that sharpens your arguments, strengthens your relationships, and leads to better outcomes. Let's get started!

When dealing with a conflict, it's important to first understand the root cause of the conflict. This can be done by asking questions such as "what is the problem?", "why is it a problem?", and "what are the underlying assumptions and beliefs that are driving the conflict?" By understanding the root cause of the conflict, individuals can then begin to identify potential solutions that address the underlying issues.

Voicing dissent with a superior can be a difficult task, but it's important to remember that it can be beneficial for both the individual and the company. Before deciding to voice your opinion, it's important to do a risk assessment, weighing the potential risks of pushback or a negative reaction from your boss against the risks of not speaking up.

A conundrum is a problem or riddle that is difficult to solve or explain. By using conundrums, we can test our critical thinking skills and learn how to disagree constructively. We have a full free course with dozen of conundrums to use for these activities. All are thanked for not having right or wrong questions.