Advocating for technology education

What is technology education?

You might think back to your school days where tech meant woodwork, metalwork, home economics or sewing. It’s not. You might think it’s about computers and devices – only partly, as tools used in technological processes. The foundation of the technology curriculum, since its introduction in 1993, is “intervention by design”, referring to the problem-solving approaches we use to develop a product, space, or technological outcome for stakeholders. Technology education is essential for preparing the next generation of engineers, with early exposure to engineering concepts beginning at primary school.

What does technology education focus on?

In Aotearoa, there are two curriculum frameworks: the New Zealand Curriculum, used in English-medium contexts; and Te Marautanga o Aotearoa, which guides Māori-medium educational contexts. Technology/hangarau, as a learning area, is about problem solving and intervention by design, working with stakeholders to address their needs. Today, technology education focuses on equipping students with the knowledge, skills and critical thinking needed to navigate and shape a world increasingly defined by technological devices. It’s about being tech-literate and future-focused. For ākonga, learning through technology/hangarau involves the practical application of their skills in real-world scenarios.

What does it mean in practice?

Much like engineering, technology education is practical, collaborative and deeply tied to problem solving. Through the curriculum frameworks, students analyse situations, experiment, find solutions and create innovative outcomes. In practice, this includes activities such as creating simple machines, building prototypes and designing software, which all help develop the analytical skills needed in engineering.

Supporting technology education

Technology Education New Zealand (TENZ) is a non-profit professional, collaborative association supporting all levels of technology education. A Technical Interest Group of Engineering New Zealand, it is organised by teachers for teachers. TENZ aims to enhance technology learning and teaching by creating a well-informed, well-connected, supportive, sustainable professional community with a strong voice, providing effective advocacy for technology education. TENZ has a well-supported network of tertiary and council members working together to help train teachers and students.

With just over 2,000 members already, numbers continue to grow, reflecting a strong, well-supported professional network. TENZ members work with educators across all levels of technology education (early childhood, primary, secondary and tertiary) informing and improving each other’s practice and creating a strong professional cohort. We advocate for members’ needs and interests, helping them reach their goals. TENZ’s teacher-led team collaborates with industry and the Ministry of Education.

How can engineers get involved?

TENZ warmly welcomes engineers as members. But why should engineers join the group? To help shape the future problem solvers of Aotearoa. Engineers can contribute by joining online forums (ako.tenz.org.nz), attending our biennial conference or collaborating with schools, giving pupils insights into the profession, and educating technology/hangarau teachers about industry needs.

By working with engineers, we can develop units of work that highlight the profession’s needs, in addition to inspiring learners. For engineers, it’s an opportunity to influence and engage with the evolving curriculum landscape. That’s why investing in future engineers and technologists must start in schools, where curiosity is sparked and eyes are opened to the possibilities of these careers.

Claire Wigley and Ruth Lemon are Kaiārahi (leaders) at Technology Education New Zealand. Claire is a technology educator and STEM advocate, and Ruth is an educator and PhD candidate.

This article was first published in the September 2025 issue of EG magazine.