Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Technology
High School Courses
- *General Math
- Physics
- Metals
- *Composition
- Industrial Arts
- Electronics
- Physical Science
* Courses available in the Academic Achievement Center or High School Completion Center
Basic Skills in the Program and on the Job
Reading
Visuals such as charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations are an important part of the reading done in this program. The main text, used as a central part of the coursework, is written at approximately a ninth to tenth grade level. Tests are based on a combination of text, lectures, handouts, and audiovisual materials.
In addition to their texts, students will read installation and service manuals, manufacturers' service bulletins, and trade magazines. These materials are also used on the job, as technical updating is a continuing process in this field.
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Language
The required English course in this program is Communication Skills (COM 703)) or Composition I (ENG 105), which students take in their second term. In their other courses, students make one-to-one oral explanations of procedures and equipment. On the job, technicians must be able to adjust spoken communications to their audience, using correct technical language with coworkers and explaining procedures in simpler language to customers.
Writing activities in the program include work orders and service reports. In the work place, technicians may also be required to write a brief explanation to a manufacturer justifying a repair as being in warranty. Clearly presented details and correct spelling are important on all of these forms.
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Math
Students take Applied Math (MAT 772) in their first term. This course moves quickly from basic arithmetic (whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and per cents) to technical applications. In their other coursework, students will learn to use formulas for area, perimeter, and volume calculations; electrical calculations (Ohm's Law, resistances, capacitance, power); and air flow calculations.
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Learning
Strong reasoning skills are essential to success in this program. Students must carefully follow sequential directions for equipment repair and installation. They use comparison and contrast to identify an appropriate replacement part when an identical one is unavailable. The troubleshooting process for equipment repair requires accurately observing a malfunction, tracing possible causes of the problem and selecting a workable solution.
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Computer
Students make considerable use of computers in this program. In Computer Load Calculations (HCR 840), they use a program to perform load calculations for equipment and duct sizing. Their Environmental Controls class (HCR 803) includes a computer aided drafting component and computer building controls programming. In Communication Skills, they will be briefly introduced to a word processing program.
On the job, computers are used for load calculations connected to sales, recordkeeping, ordering parts, troubleshooting and continuing education.
View more information on computer skills in the Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Technology program.
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