What is Technology Education?

Technology Education is an integrated, experienced-based instructional program designed to prepare a population that is knowledgeable about technology – its evolution, systems, techniques, uses and social and cultural significance.  It results in the application of mathematics and science concepts to solve practical problems and extend human capabilities.

What are the expectations for students in Technology Education programs?

The desired outcome for all students taking Technology Education courses is that they increase their ability to use, manage, understand and assess technology.  They do this by learning about the nature of technology, the impact of technology on society, the engineering design and development process, the abilities of technological society, and the role of technology in business and industry.  Students gain this understanding by studying the core technologies: electrical, electronic, optical, fluid, mechanical, structural, material, thermal, and biotechnology.

Are students required to take Technology Education?

All students must earn one credit in Technology Education as part of Maryland’s graduation requirements.

Are there content standards for Technology Education?

The content standards can be found in the Technology Education Voluntary State Curriculum (VSC).  The VSC is aligned to the International Technology Education Association's (ITEA) Standards for Technological Literacy: Content for the Study of Technology.  The State Board of Education also approved new Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) that aligns to the VSC that became effective in September 2007. 

How does Technology Education differ from Educational Technology?

Technology Education is a study of technology, which provides an opportunity for students to learn about the processes and knowledge related to technology that is needed to solve problems and extend human capabilities.  Whereas, Educational Technology is the use of technology to support student learning and instruction.  It includes all the electronic tools, both hardware and software, that assist individuals in their ability to acquire and communicate information. 

Are there any resources available to help school systems strengthen their Technology Education programs?

1.     Technology Education Voluntary State Curriculum

      This document contains five overarching standards that identify what  students should know and be able to do in order to be technologically literate.  It also provides local school systems with a means for developing challenging curriculum while increasing state supported opportunities for professional development. 

2.     Technology Education Facilities Gruidelines

     This document is to assist local school systems in the planning, design, construction and occupancy of technology education facilites.  It is a translation of an educational philosophy about technology education into a three-dimensional place in order for students to achieve the goals set forth in the curricular framework.  The facilities guidelines identify the space and lab requirements for technology education instruction.  

3.     Center to Advance the Teaching of Technology and Science

      As a member of the Center's Consortium of States, MSDE makes the following series of professional publications based on the Standards for Technological Literacy: Content for the Study of Technology available to Technology Education teachers:

     Middle School

• Exploring Technology - 6th Grade
• Invention and Innovation - 7th Grade
• Technology Systems - 8th Grade

     High School 

      Technology Education (One Credit Graduation Requirement)

• Foundations of Technology

     Advanced Technology Education

• Technological Issues and Impacts
• Technological Design
• Advanced Technological Applications
• Advanced Design Applications
• Engineering Design

     They are designed for developing contemporary, standards-based 6-12 technology education programs.