Research
Curriculum Writing Team Focus Group
In the spring of 2006, a curriculum writing team was assembled to review the Discovery Task Force recommendations, other related research, and trends and issues related to technology education. The focus group also reviewed all related academic and industry standards. The focus group consisted of secondary academic and vocational teachers and representatives from the Research and Curriculum Unit. As a result of this meeting, the current STEM Applications curriculum draft was developed.
Discovery Task Force
In the Spring of 2004, a Discovery Task Force was assembled to evaluate the Career, Computer, and Technology Discovery courses. The task force consisted of school district superintendents, middle school principals, Discovery teachers, industry representatives, higher education representatives, government representatives, and staff members from the Office of Vocational Education and Workforce Development. As a result of this meeting, recommendations were made to improve the Career, Computer, and Technology Discovery courses.
Research Synopsis
Mississippi must respond to America’s evolution from an industrial-based economy to a knowledge-based economy; a competent workforce must be prepared to apply increasing knowledge and skills that can be easily upgraded and adapted to meet the rapidly changing condition of the 21st century. As the demand for highly skilled workers is increasing, alarming trends are emerging in educational outcomes: increasing dropout rates; inadequate math, science, and communication skills among graduates; increasing postsecondary remediation needs; widening achievement gaps; and misalignment of workforce training and economic development.
Articles, books, Web sites, and other materials listed at the end of each unit of the curriculum were considered during the revision process. Sources such as Reinventing the American High School for the 21st Century: A Position Paper, Results that Matter: 21st Century Skills and High School Reform,Understanding University Success: A Project of the Association of American Universities, and Aligning State Workforce Development and Economic Development were especially useful in providing insight into trends and issues in the field. These references are suggested for use by instructors and students during the study of the topics outlined.
Industry advisory team members from schools throughout the state were asked to give input related to changes to be made to the curriculum framework. Specific comments related to soft skills needed in this program included an understanding of 21st century skills, a solid foundation in basic mathematical skills, a solid foundation in using the writing process to produce a piece of writing, and being able to read and comprehend information. Occupation-specific skills stated included learning Computer Aided Drafting and Design.
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