Technology Education K-12

The Atlantic Provinces technology education curriculum includes expectations that incorporate digital and media education themes. The curriculum document Foundation for the Atlantic Canada Technology Education Curriculum includes a section that demonstrates the complementary relationship between digital and media literacy and technology education:

The focus of this curriculum is the development of students’ technological literacy, capability, and responsibility (International Technology Education Association, 1996).

Technological literacy is the ability to use technological systems, manage technological activities, and make informed decisions about technological issues.

Technologically literate people

  • understand the role and nature of technology
  • understand how technological systems are designed, used, and controlled
  • critically examine technologies
  • respond rationally to ethical dilemmas caused by technology

Technological responsibility requires an understanding of the consequences of technological activity and a willingness to take appropriate action.

Technologically responsible people

  • understand that technological activity consumes resources and has consequences
  • assess the benefits and risks of technological actions
  • take personal responsibility for their technological decisions

Click on a grade level under Technology Education for a list of media-related outcomes and links to supporting resources from the MediaSmarts site. (Note: as many of our lessons can be adapted to suit different grade levels, specific lessons may be listed for more than one grade. Teachers should also note that individual lessons often satisfy a number of learning outcomes.)