Program Changes in Technology Teacher Education in Taiwan.

Overview & Synopsis

Taiwan has two technology teacher departments: one at the National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) and the other at National Kaohsiung Normal University (NKNU). In recent years, both universities' technology teacher education programs have simultaneously followed two lines of development: the transition from an industrial arts education program to a technology education program and the pursuit of a diversified development. Materials relevant to technology education were reviewed and experts in the field of technology education were interviewed to identify program changes in technology teacher education in Taiwan. Among the conclusions of that research were the following: (1) although the pedagogical aims, structure, and content of the education programs at NTNU and NKNU are faced with diverse operational changes, training of technology teachers remains a main priority at both universities; (2) technology teacher training, technological training, and human resource development constitute the three main development trends for institutions providing technology teacher education in Taiwan; (3) clear differences exist in the direction and pace of development of technology teacher education at NTNU and NKNU; (4) both institutions have graduate programs; and (5) both departments are making special efforts to establish and increase cooperative relationships with business and industry. (Contains 10 references.) (MN)