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Alternative approaches to K-12 school technology illustrated by an experimental course in technical investigations

School technology programmes in the western world are being pursued through the age ranges 5-15/16 and 11-15/16 and in some countries they are compulsory. Information technology is likely to be a cross curricular activity. The objectives and content of such programmes may differ considerably from the objectives that engineers might believe they should have. The term technology is broadly interpreted, as in every day life, and there is no specific focus on engineering. Given that they are based on design and make activities they respond to neglected areas of the curriculum, i.e. the provision of practical work, the tapping of spatial ability and creative talent, and the development of problem-solving skills. Such aims contribute to the completion of a child's general education and there the matter should rest. Among the criticisms that have been levelled against these programmes are that they pay inadequate attention to the role of science in technological development. However, it may be objected that students would, in any event, be more able to cope with an engineering oriented curriculum in senior high school (i.e. post 15/16).