TECHNOLOGY STANDARD COURSE OF STUDY

DESCRIPTION

Technology Education helps students develop an appreciation and fundamental understanding of technology through the study and application of materials, tools, processes, inventions, structures and artifacts of the past and present. Technology may be defined as "How people modify their natural world to suit their purposes" (from Technology for All Americans). This series of courses allows students to apply knowledge, tools, skills, and insights to the solving of problems found in communication, manufacturing, structural, and transportation systems. To a lesser degree, the areas of biotechnology, agriculture, and medical technology also are addressed. Students learn about and from technology, by applying technological principles and concepts as well as abstract ideas and concepts of mathematics, science, language arts, the fine arts and social studies. Through this integrated study of technology, students develop an understanding of the importance and role of technology in our society and the economy and its impacts upon the environment.

DESIGN

Technology Education courses are an equal balance between hands-on laboratory experiences and knowledge and understanding. Students are given the opportunity to apply the principles and concepts addressed within the curriculum through experimentation and research, design, problem solving, formal and informal presentations, and virtual and physical modeling. The middle grades Exploring Technology Systems course offers students an overview of various technology systems as well as an opportunity to reflect upon technology occupations. At the high school level, communication skills and problem-solving are major focuses of the prerequisite course, Fundamentals of Technology. Emphasis is placed on continued skill development and the use of more complex tools central to Technology Advanced Studies and the systems courses. Topics include technical communication, problem-solving, modeling, safety, and technology assessment.

The systems courses (Communication, Manufacturing, Structural and Transportation) develop indepth skills and understandings in their respective areas. The two principles of technology courses provide students with a fundamental understanding of physics. These courses are laboratory based and are designed to permit students the opportunity to apply physics concepts to practical situations. The course series scientific and technical visualization (SciVis) allow students to develop complex graphic skills that have virtually universal application. While the primary focus is on science and technological subjects, students may easily transfer their work to such areas as business, social studies and the arts.

The culminating course Technology Advanced Studies offers students the opportunity to select and pursue a topic they find interesting and challenging using the skills and insights gained from their technology course work and general education experience. This systematic approach to learning about technology prepares students for the rapidly changing technological world by developing skills necessary for adapting to new technologies as they evolve. It increases the likelihood that they become full participants in the global economy and rewarded and productive citizens.

The Technology Student Association (TSA) is also an essential component of Technology Education. Through TSA, students learn and apply technical, leadership, social and civic skills. Students become effective team members through the use and development of interpersonal and technical skills. TSA activities are an integral part of the Technology Education program and relate directly to the program outcomes.