Technology Department
We live in a technological world and every aspect of our lives is affected by technology. Everyone and everything depends on the skilled people who design, build, maintain and operate the infrastructure of our society. Technology, and technological education, is the application of science, math, social studies and the creative arts. An education system that does not value applied technical literacy is unacceptable in today's world. An education system that does not encourage youth to design, build things, use tools, problem solve, think critically and explore, is a disservice to all citizens in our society.
Recognizing the influence of technology on society, the environment and the daily lives of people, is very important. The Abbey Park Technology Department is committed to the technical education of all its students, while encouraging their sense of wonder about the technological world that surrounds them.
Specifically, the Abbey Park Technology Department promotes:
- The development of opportunities for all students to gain essential technological skills and knowledge necessary for their career development.
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The development of literacy and numeracy skills, strategies and habits of mind, required for technical inquiry.
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The development and promotion of safety through learning outcomes, which include: a positive attitude towards personal and group safety, awareness of potential safety hazards at home and in the workplace, knowledge of school and classroom safety procedures, familiarity with the procedures to be followed in an emergency, knowledge and use of safe work habits, the ability to design safe working areas and the commitment needed to maintain them properly.
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The achievement of broad technological competence, therefore, students need to understand the uses of technology in the three major areas of physical products, human processes, and environmental systems. They must also understand the connections among these areas and how they interact with one another and with society as a whole.
(adapted from the OCTE (Ontario Council for Technological Education) and the government site for Broad-based technological education curriculum)
Explore Key Technology Areas
Why Every Student Should Take Tech:
1. Become Self Reliant
When we learn to build or fix things, we develop a sense of independence.
2. Understand the Principles of STEAM
Students learn better with hands-on “project based learning”. Students must understand the basics of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) if their projects are to succeed. These projects make their math and science curriculum more relevant.
3. Learn the Value of Perseverance
In Tech class, perseverance is encouraged. There’s more than one way to get the job done.
4. Helps Students Find Their Strengths
Students learn to be creative and innovative in Tech classes. There’s nothing like taking an idea or concept and making it a reality.
5. Explores the Skilled Trades
Stats Canada has estimated that one million skilled trade workers will be needed by the year 2025. This will be the largest sector for employment in the near future. Technological skills are important for careers in engineering, design, and business. Many high school graduates claim that their tech class was a critical part of their education.
