GHS: Why Technology Education

Why Technology Education?

Tremendous changes in our lives have occurred because of advancements in technology. Technology has extended human capabilities in physical, social and intellectual ways. The positive and negative impacts from these changes have had social, ecological, political, educational, and economic implications. In response to the impact of technology on human life, educators are becoming more aware of the need for students to study technology. The expansion of technology education is one example of the response educators are making to technological change.

Traditional industrial arts, like many other fields of study, is in transition because of the many changes in its environment. The purpose of changing from traditional industrial arts programs to technology education is to emphasize a broad approach to technological instruction and learning activities that develop technological literacy. Today students need to be more prepared to enter the real world. Traditional industrial arts programs only focused on developing manipulative skills and were centered around specific tools or materials used in a particular area. Technology education teaches students not only how to use their hands, but how to apply these methods and skills to real life situations. The learning activities and projects also enhance the student's design skills, creativity, and problem solving skills.

Technology education is no buzz term. Technology education is the doorway to the future. It will get a lot more students involved, not just the students who want to become skilled with their hands. This program has real world applications that will interest everyone. It will also enhance the student's design skills, creativity, and problem solving skills. Young people face a world that will change constantly during their lifetime. Technology education must harness the ever changing technology and influence future changes that will increase human potential and prepare our children to meet the challenges that lie ahead.

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