Alternative approaches to K-12 school technology illustrated by anexperimental course in technical investigations
Kelly, D.T.; Heywood, J.
Frontiers in Education Conference, 1996. FIE apos;96. 26th Annual Conference., Proceedings of
Volume 1, Issue , 6-9 Nov 1996 Page(s):388 - 393 vol.1
Digital Object Identifier 10.1109/FIE.1996.569992
Summary:School technology programmes in the western world are being
pursued through the age ranges 5-15/16 and 11-15/16 and in some
countries they are compulsory. Information technology is likely to be a
cross curricular activity. The objectives and content of such programmes
may differ considerably from the objectives that engineers might believe
they should have. The term technology is broadly interpreted, as in
every day life, and there is no specific focus on engineering. Given
that they are based on design and make activities they respond to
neglected areas of the curriculum, i.e. the provision of practical work,
the tapping of spatial ability and creative talent, and the development
of problem-solving skills. Such aims contribute to the completion of a
child's general education and there the matter should rest. Among the
criticisms that have been levelled against these programmes are that
they pay inadequate attention to the role of science in technological
development. However, it may be objected that students would, in any
event, be more able to cope with an engineering oriented curriculum in
senior high school (i.e. post 15/16)
View citation and abstract |
Cart
