This educator guide is organized into seven chapters: (1) Overview; (2) The Design Challenge; (3) Connections to National Curriculum Standards; (4) Preparing to Teach; (5) Classroom Sessions; (6) Opportunities for Extension; and (7) Teacher Resources. Chapter 1 provides information about Environmental Control and Life Support Systems used on NASA…

America's K-12 education system faces three significant challenges: (1) increased global demands for skilled workers, (2) significant financial shortfalls, and (3) a looming teacher shortage. Independently, these factors present significant challenges for U.S. schools. In combination, they create a national imperative for swift action to create a…

As the world economy continues to evolve, businesses and industries must adopt new practices and processes in order to survive. Quality and cost control, work teams and participatory management, and an infusion of technology are transforming the way people work and do business. Employees are now expected to read, write, and communicate…

It is no coincidence that many of the "Grand Challenges for Engineering" (National Academy of Engineering, 2007-2010)--such as carbon sequestration--address environmental problems that were precipitated by human inventiveness and engineering achievements. Although people recognize their dependence upon environmental processes to provide…

Comments briefly on the importance of recognizing values in the administrative process, makes some observations about increasing value conflicts in society, and presents an approach to leadership and decision making which takes into account value systems. Builds on Chester Barnard's definition that leadership involves technological attainments and…

Describes the dimensions of technological literacy, the capacity to use and work with technology intelligently. Provides examples of ways in which technological literacy can be developed through each of the service areas of vocational education. (SK)

Works of over 200 authors were examined using dialectical inquiry and phenomenological reflection, revealing six literacy themes (cognitive performance, cultural identity, knowledgeability, language communication, reading and writing, and utility) and seven technology themes (ambiance, artefact, evolution, invention, knowledge, praxis, and…

Asserts that many people have minimal comprehension of how technology works, why it works, and the implications of its use. Offers a mandate for technological literacy in the United States. Includes characteristics of a technologically literate citizen and recommendations for strengthening the presence of technology in education. (JOW)

Presents a strategic framework for standards-based reform: (1) dissemination (develop awareness); (2) interpretation (increase understanding and support); (3) implementation (change policies, programs, and practices); (4) evaluation (monitor and adjust); and (5) revision (improve efficiency and influence of standards). Outlines roles for various…

Elaborates on the need for research to focus on specific concepts and processes related to technological literacy, students' conceptions or misconceptions about technology, and curriculum integration. (SK)

Describes a model curriculum project funded by the Connecticut Department of Education to develop a standards-based model curriculum using the national Standards for Technological Literacy: Content for the Study of Technology. (JOW)

Addresses the relationship of technology, power, and liberty during the formative years of the United States. Discusses the values associated with technology use and the dangers that technological illiteracy poses to freedom as dependence on technology increases. (SK)

Describes how a middle school teacher has implemented the Standards for Technological Literacy. Illustrates the evaluation of each lesson by national and state standards and benchmarks and district, program, and course outcomes. (JOW)

The goals of Phase III of the Technology for All Americans Project are to develop student assessment standards, professional development standards, program standards, and effective leaders. The project is based on the Standards for Technology Literacy, a NASA initiative. (JOW)

Discusses what students should know and be able to do as specified in the International Technology Education Association's standards. Addresses how technology education programs can meet the standards set by industry and teachers. (JOW)