THE TECHNOLOGY TRADE CHANGING TIMES IN SCHOOL WORKSHOPS

Written by Noel Philips, Head of Design Technologies

Technology has become an integral part of all trades, enabling far more efficient production processes, enhancing global connectivity and driving economic growth. Technologically advanced tools, machinery, communication processes the ability to instantly access information on materials, machinery use, ordering, delivery and tracking has transformed the way in which trades operate and can deliver results.

With technology’s ever-evolving landscape, the trade sector continues to embrace innovation, opening up new avenues for growth and propelling the global economy forward.

Technology in schools has also undergone a remarkable transformation over recent years, reshaping the landscape of education.

In today’s digital age, school students are progressively leveraging technology to assist them in exploring and preparing for a trade career when they leave secondary education.

Technology has provided students with a wealth of resources and opportunities to gain knowledge and practical skills in their chosen trade field. Online platforms and websites offer comprehensive guides, tutorials and virtual workshops, allowing students to learn and practice trade-related tasks at their own pace.

Interactive simulations and virtual reality applications provide a handson experience, enabling students to understand the intricacies of various trades and develop essential skills in a managed, safe manner. Additionally, social media platforms and online communities connect learners with industry professionals, allowing them to seek guidance, ask questions, and gain insights into different trade pathways.

“I used the CNC Plasma to make my personalised firepit this year. To do this by hand with the oxy plant and an angle grinder would have taken me a long time. My CAD drawing was saved as a .dxf file, exported to the plasma then cut from 3mm mild steel, all within a lesson. Technologies in the trades saves so much time and money.”

Clay Goodwin. Year 12 student studying Certificate II in Engineering Pathways, Certificate III in Agriculture and undertaking a school-based apprenticeship in Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology.

Technology also plays a crucial role in research and exploration, as students can access online databases, industryspecific forums, and digital libraries to gather information about different trades and understand the latest trends and advancements.

By embracing technology as a tool, RGS students can enhance their understanding, build relevant skills and lay a solid foundation for a successful future in a trade.

Technology is not just about sitting in front of a computer working on apps, programmes and coding. Computer numerical controlled plasma cutters, laser cutter/engravers and 3-dimensional CNC router machines are used throughout work programs in the RGS Design Technologies department as students interact with these platforms to realise their tasks.

We have moved from the early 2000s, when computer labs were uncommon, to the present day, where powerful, portable digital devices are everywhere, the integration of technology has revolutionised teaching and learning.

The advent of the internet was a revolutionary paradigm, instantly linking the world and currently a vast number of online platforms are facilitating collaborative education on a global scale. Learners may now connect, communicate and engage with educators, peers and professionals across the globe. The world of work is underpinned by problem solving and technology has become an absolute necessity for any business to thrive.

I have a 27-year trade history in boilermaking and maintenance coordination with the Bundaberg Sugar Company. I began my teaching career in 2006 and relocated from Bundaberg to The Rockhampton Grammar School in 2013. Whilst I was studying the teaching degree, desktop computers and interactive whiteboards were the only ICT tools for instruction and research. Laptops, tablets, and smartphones are now standard communication devices across all sectors and have exponentially increased productivity, with Artificial Intelligence software leading the way as businesses compete to increase their market share. Virtual classrooms, online assignments, and e-learning platforms are widely used in universities, providing flexible and personalised learning experiences to cater for learners’ needs. Current trades cannot do without quality electronic communication and control devices for job efficiency and staff effectiveness, therefore students looking toward a hands-on practical career will benefit from having capabilities in various technologies to assist their transition into the workforce.

“We get to use various CNC machines at school like the plasma and laser which is great. Angle grinders, pneumatic tools, the oxy plant and welders have been around for a long time but are still viewed as current technologies to increase productivity and we have to be competent in using this equipment to be better prepared for our future jobs. The various technologies we use in the VET courses help us to be more productive”.

At The Rockhampton Grammar School, students are provided with a quality laptop with excellent processing capabilities that can access files and resources from home and interface with all necessary programs and platforms they interact with at school. The availability of new technologies complements their learning as students now have instant access to a vast array of information and resources when undertaking their studies.

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it holds the promise of further enhancing education and preparing our students for the challenges they will face and conquer in the future.