Implementing Technology education in a high school: A case study

Abstract

This paper discusses the results of a study of the factors, which enhanced or hindered the implementation of technology education into one Queensland secondary school. A case study research methodology was used. The results of the study revealed that the experience of the site was very similar to that of schools in other countries and Australian states who have already proceeded in this direction. It showed that the implementation of technology education is enhanced by access to and participation in quality inservice training; appropriate facilities and equipment; support from the school's administration; adequate budget for continual improvements to the facilities and equipment purchases; active marketing and promotion of the subject to students, other teaching staff, school administration and the wider school community; and involvement of the teachers in the development of curriculum. It also identify some additional factors that were not a major focus of previous research in this area, in particular the impact that the personal qualities of the teachers have on the effectiveness (or perceived effectiveness) of the implementation. Strong leadership was identified as a key factor in the continuing success and improvement in technology education in the school studied