The Four Strands of Learning in Technology

The four strands of learning in technology set out in this statement are interdependent. They are:

1. Designing, Making and Appraising;
2. Materials;
3. Information; and
4. Systems.

The strands form the basis for planning technology programs in schools and for reflection on student learning. They provide a structure for continual review, re-orientation and up-dating of the schools' technology program.

The tasks and activities that students undertake in technology are directed towards the development of students' capabilities in each of the four strands of learning. All learning in technology involves the designing, making and appraising strand. The relative emphasis on the materials, information and systems strands varies according to the needs of students and the requirements of the challenge in which they are engaged. In some instances all three may receive equal treatment. Together the four strands of learning provide unity of purpose and direction across all areas of study in technology.

Strand 1- Designing, Making and Appraising

A process of designing, making and appraising involves students in investigating, devising, communicating, producing and reflecting. Through this process students develop ideas and create imaginative solutions for the learning tasks in which they are engaged. They participate in decisions about what to do, why it should be done, how it should be done, and how what has been done might be improved. Particular attention is given to the context in which the tasks and activities are set.

Strand 2 - Materials

Materials are natural and synthetic. They include fibres, papier-mache, clay, ceramics, woods, foods, film fabrics, video-tape, foil, plastics, teflon, plants, hormones, and a variety of composites. The properties and characteristics of materials can be utilised to create technological processes and products that meet technological needs and specifications. The selection of materials to use in given situations requires careful consideration of advantages and limitations from technical and social viewpoints. Appropriate applications of materials are determined by their functional, environmental and cultural impact. Working with materials involves learning techniques for processing, handling and recycling a wide range of materials. These techniques play an important role in achieving planned outcomes from the materials.

Strand 3 - Information

Information is knowledge that is generated and used in everyday life. Information can be stored, retrieved and communicated using sound and/or visual images including print, numerical, pictorial and graphical representations. The combinations selected depend on the nature and purpose of the task being undertaken. An increasing number of multi-media technologies are becoming available. The techniques of gathering, sorting, storing, retrieving and communicating information form a major technology. They are also used in solving challenges across the complete range of technology.

Strand 4 - Systems

Systems are combinations of components that work together to achieve specified outcomes (that could not be achieved by the individual components themselves). Systems may contain a single sequence through which the components interact or a complex series of interconnected sequences. The mechanisms by which systems operate and are controlled are essential parts of the efficient and effective functioning of systems.

All systems have particular inputs and processes that lead to specific outcomes. Their operation can be controlled by mechanical, chemical, electronic and human means. The integration and programming of systems to achieve desired outcomes are important areas of study.

Systems are used, applied and developed in all areas of human activity. Environmental, engineering, energy, manufacturing and management systems are particularly significant. The capacity to operate and modify systems, and to investigate causes and effects within them is part of learning in this strand. The appropriateness of the applications of systems is determined by their technical, environmental and cultural consequences, and how they meet specified human needs.