Relation Between Arts, Mathematics, Science, Technology and Engineering STEAM Pyramid
Relation Between Arts, Mathematics, Science, Technology and Engineering STEAM Pyramid
Comparing prehistoric, medieval, and present engineering provides insight into the evolution of
human technological capabilities and the development of engineering principles over time. Here are
some key comparisons:
1. Technological Advancements:
Prehistoric: Prehistoric engineering primarily involved simple tools and techniques for survival,
such as stone tools, fire, and basic shelters. Early humans utilized natural materials and adapted to
their environments.
Medieval: Medieval engineering saw advancements in construction techniques, including the use of
stone and mortar for building structures such as castles, cathedrals, and bridges. Medieval engineers
developed rudimentary mechanical devices like water wheels and windmills.
Present: Present engineering encompasses a wide range of sophisticated technologies and
disciplines, including civil, mechanical, electrical, aerospace, and biomedical engineering. Modern
engineers leverage advanced materials, computer-aided design (CAD), simulation software, and
robotics to design and build complex infrastructure, machinery, and systems.
Major Milestones:
• Wright Brothers (1903): Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved the first sustained,
controlled, powered flight of a heavier-than-air machine at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
This pivotal moment ushered in the age of aviation.
• World Wars I and II: These global conflicts dramatically accelerated the development of
aircraft technology. The need for faster, more maneuverable, and more heavily armed
aircraft led to rapid advancements in engine design, aerodynamics, and materials.
• Sputnik I (1957): The Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik I, the first artificial satellite,
marked the beginning of the Space Age. This event expanded the scope of engineering
beyond Earth's atmosphere into space.
• Jet Aircraft (1944): The introduction of jet propulsion revolutionized aviation. The
Messerschmitt Me 262, a German fighter jet, was the first operational jet-powered aircraft.
Jet engines allowed for significantly higher speeds and altitudes compared to propeller-
driven aircraft.
• Formal Definition (1958): As technology advanced and the exploration of space began, the
term "aerospace engineering" was coined in 1958. It encompassed the design, development,
and study of vehicles operating both within Earth's atmosphere (aeronautics) and in outer
space (astronautics).
In summary, aerospace engineering has evolved from early experiments with balloons and gliders to
the sophisticated design of modern aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites. Key figures, technological
advancements, and world events have shaped the field, leading to its current state as a complex and
vital engineering discipline.
STEAM PYRAMID:
◦ The STEAM Pyramid is like a building with five floors. At the very bottom, you have
"Science," which is about understanding how things work in the world, like why the sky is
blue or how plants grow.
◦ On top of that, there's "Technology," which is like using what we've learned in
science to create useful things. It's how we make smartphones, cars, and computers work.
◦ Above that, we have "Engineering," which is all about designing and building stuff.
Engineers use science and technology to create things like bridges, buildings, and even
spaceships.
◦ Then, there's "Arts," which includes things like painting, music, and writing. Even
though it might seem different from science and technology, art can be inspired by them
and can also inspire new ideas.
Finally, at the very top, we have "Mathematics." This is like the language of science and
engineering. It helps us measure things, solve problems, and make sense of the