According to the author, teachers must give their students the ability to assess past, present, and new technologies, while making them aware that there is always a price to pay for any new technology. Students need to acquire the ability to make critical decisions about the world they live in and the technologies that will impact their lives. In…

The author discusses the types of online databases useful to technology educators and other applications of online technology. He briefly describes (1) search techniques, (2) equipment requirements, (3) costs, and (4) various information services. (CH)

Technology students should be allowed to rethink and redesign their "completed projects" and thereby improve the final results. Students gain more knowledge and understanding when they take time to redesign. (JOW)

Using an 1895 edition of Webster's dictionary, examines how the definition of technological terms has changed and the new terms that were created in the 19th century. Explores ways teachers can use the dictionary in teaching technology education. (SK)

Highlights the selected contributions of women educators to industrial education in the 1800s and early 1900s. Provides interviews with three women who are active in technology education today and who offer their opinions about what it takes for women to assume and maintain leadership roles in the field. (JOW)

Provides information and strategies for increasing the international activity of teachers and administrators at all levels of technology education. Includes a directory of agencies that offer international teaching opportunities. (JOW)

Lean manufacturing, a streamlined system of flow and job shop techniques, relies on self-directed work teams. Technology educators can prepare students for work in this environment by using problem-solving teams in the classroom to work on design briefs and other group projects. (SK)

This technology education activity will allow the students to observe acoustical energy and will put them in a problem-solving situation where they must use the movement of a sound-activated diaphragm to perform another activity. (Author)

A miniature tractor pull was developed as a high school activity, enabling students to assess a tractor's pulling capabilities and determine subsequent horsepower. The activity takes the textbook concept of horsepower and makes it come alive. (JOW)

This learning activity describes the growth of the rapid parcel delivery business and the tremendous volume of materials handled, due largely to the successful implementation of the technology involved. It includes possible student outcomes and a quiz. (JOW)

This learning activity is designed to increase knowledge of materials science; engineering; and technology design and the manufacture of the very small devices used in watches, computers, and calculators. It looks at possible innovations to come from micro- and nanotechnology. Includes a student quiz. (Author/JOW)

Discusses the use of maps, signs, street numbers, logos, and other types of signs. Suggests that the principles of wayfinding or mapping can be applied to the layout of user information and equipment. (JOW)

Discusses the use of the Internet and World Wide Web (WWW) as an appropriate technology education activity. Provides opportunities for students to develop WWW pages and learn the fundamentals of visual design, use of hypertext, and techniques for electronic communication. (JOW)

This unit of study on genetic disorders takes an integrated approach to the study of biotechnology. Includes both technology education and science as well as links to health, social sciences, language arts, communication skills, and mathematics. (JOW)

The technology literacy standards will necessitate increased professional development for those required to implement them. Four areas to guide professional development plans are as follows:(1) learning about technology; (2) learning to teach technology; (3) self-assessment and continuous improvement; and (4) sustained professional development.…