Electrification of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Area: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Electrical Distribution
Kim K. Mahase
New York City College of Technology
EET 1122
Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity
This assignment encourages students to explore real-world engineering challenges in a civic engagement context, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical reasoning, information literacy, and teamwork. Students should aim to provide practical and well-researched solutions to the electrical distribution needs of the NYSE area.
Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?
In this assignment, you will explore the electrified tracks running beneath the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the electrical infrastructure required to operate the NYSE securely. You will conduct research and answer critical questions related to electrical distribution systems, backup systems, voltage levels, transmission efficiency, and power requirements for the NYSE area.
Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?
This activity was implemented near the conclusion of the semester. It occupied one classroom session. Additionally, students were allotted approximately 1.5 hours outside of class to complete the write-up.
Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?
Step 1: Research the NYSE (Introduction)
Begin by researching and gathering information about the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
Write an introduction that provides an overview of the NYSE, its location, historical significance, and its role in the global financial market.
Include any relevant information about the electrified tracks running underneath the NYSE and their importance.
Step 2: Respond to the Following Questions
Answer the following questions based on your research and engineering knowledge:
How to make an electrical distribution system safe: Explain the key principles and measures that should be taken to ensure the safety of an electrical distribution system in an area like the NYSE.
What electrical backup systems should be employed: Describe the types of electrical backup systems that should be implemented to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the NYSE, especially in case of emergencies or power outages.
What voltage levels are best for traction power transmission: Discuss the ideal voltage levels for transmitting traction power efficiently in the electrified tracks beneath the NYSE area. Explain the reasons behind your choice.
At what distance is the most efficient transmission: Analyze and determine the optimal distance for efficient transmission of electrical power in the context of the NYSE area's electrified tracks.
How much power do you think is needed to run the NYSE: Estimate the power requirements of the NYSE to ensure its smooth operation, taking into account its size, trading volume, and the electrified tracks' power demands.
Submission Requirements:
Prepare a well-organized report that includes an introduction, answers to the questions, and any relevant diagrams or figures.
Cite your sources properly and provide references for the information used in your research.
Submit your assignment in both printed and electronic formats.
Be prepared to present your findings and engage in discussions during the class.
Step 3: Personal Reflection on Electrical Distribution
In this step, you will reflect on the concepts you've learned in the previous steps and apply them to an aspect of your own life or an example relevant to you. This reflection will help you connect the engineering principles discussed in this assignment to real-life scenarios.
Task: Choose one of the following options:
Option A: Personal Connection
Think about an aspect of your life where electrical distribution plays a significant role. It could be related to your home, workplace, or any other environment you are familiar with. Reflect on how the principles discussed in this assignment (electrical safety, backup systems, voltage levels, transmission efficiency, power requirements) could be applied to improve the electrical distribution in that context. Discuss any potential benefits or challenges.
Option B: Real-World Example
Research and find a real-world example or case study related to electrical distribution in a critical infrastructure or commercial setting (e.g., hospitals, data centers, public transportation systems). Summarize the example and explain how the engineering concepts discussed in this assignment are relevant to the success or challenges faced in that scenario.
Submission Requirements:
Write a brief reflection (approximately 300-500 words) that clearly explains your chosen option and how it relates to the electrical distribution concepts discussed in this assignment.
If you choose Option B, provide the source or reference to the real-world example you researched.
Reflect on any ethical considerations related to your chosen aspect or example.
This activity was low-stakes.
Assessment: How do you assess this activity? What assessment measures do you use? Do you use a VALUE rubric? If not, how did you develop your rubric? Is your course part of the college-wide general education assessment initiative?
The rubric utilized was the AACU Civic Engagement VALUE Rubric.
Grading Criteria:
Depth of reflection and connection to engineering principles.
Clarity of explanation and relevance to the chosen aspect or example.
Critical thinking and insight into the application of electrical distribution concepts.
Ethical considerations and awareness demonstrated in your reflection.
Reflection: How well did this activity work in your classroom? Would you repeat it? Why or why not? What challenges did you encounter, and how did you address them? What, if anything, would you change? What did students seem to enjoy about the activity?
Implementing this activity in my classroom was quite effective in engaging students and fostering a deeper understanding of electrical distribution systems, particularly in critical environments such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The combination of theoretical concepts and practical application provided a comprehensive learning experience for students.
I would certainly consider repeating this activity in future semesters due to its positive impact on student learning outcomes. However, there were some challenges encountered during the process. One challenge was ensuring that students grasped the complexity of electrical distribution systems and their significance in real-world contexts. To address this, I incorporated more examples and case studies to illustrate key concepts.
Additionally, managing the time allocated for the activity was crucial, especially considering the depth of research and analysis required. In future iterations, I would allocate additional time for students to delve deeper into their research and refine their analyses.
Despite these challenges, students seemed to enjoy the activity, particularly the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. They appreciated the relevance of the topic to real-world situations, such as the operation of the NYSE. Furthermore, the personal connection component added an extra layer of engagement, allowing students to relate the concepts to their own experiences.
In terms of changes, I would consider incorporating more hands-on activities or simulations to further reinforce key concepts and enhance student engagement. Overall, this activity effectively facilitated student learning and engagement, and with some adjustments, it can continue to be a valuable learning experience in future semesters.
Additional Information: Please share any additional comments and further documentation of the activity – e.g. assignment instructions, rubrics, examples of student work, etc. These can be links to pages or posts on the OpenLab.
Resources and References
To support their analysis, students are provided with academic papers and technical manuals that offer insights into electrical distribution systems and their importance in critical infrastructure settings:
"Electrical Distribution System: An Overview" by Pravin D. Bhavar and Vipul M. Darji provides a comprehensive overview of electrical distribution systems and their components.
"Emergency Power Systems for Critical Facilities: A Best Practices Approach to Improving Reliability" by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) discusses the design and implementation of emergency power systems for critical facilities.
"Electrical Distribution System and Its Importance" by Thamim Sharief and Dr. Pradipkumar Dixit delves into the significance of electrical distribution systems in various sectors.
Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab
