The Development of Technology Education in New Zealand

Abstract

The paper firstly reviews changes to the structure of education in New Zealand, and discusses their influence on the decision to include technology in the curriculum as an essential learning area. The challenge of introducing a new area into the curriculum is described in terms of six critical issues. The approach to the development of the draft curriculum statement for technology, including consultation strategies and the development of a framework for technology education, is outlined. The draft curriculum statement is described in terms of three general aims and six strands, six contexts, and seven technological areas. Government policy for teacher development in technology, funding for facilities and equipment, and the importance of schools establishing links with the community is discussed. The paper concludes by describing how schools are proposing to deliver the technology curriculum.