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In this episode of Talking D&T, I had the pleasure of interviewing Scott Bartholemew, a professor of technology and engineering studies at Brigham Young University in Utah, USA. We explored the landscape of design and technology education in America, which is known there as technology and engineering education.

Scott provided fascinating insights into the complex structure of technology education in the US, explaining how it varies significantly between states. He described the historical split between generalist technology education and career-focused technical education, represented by two main organisations: ITEEA and ACTE.

We discussed how the subject is taught at different levels, with a focus on broad exposure to various technologies in middle schools. Scott also highlighted an interesting development where school librarians have unexpectedly become key technology educators in primary schools.

A significant challenge Scott mentioned is the public's lack of understanding about what technology and engineering education entails. This often leads to oversimplification when explaining the subject.

Throughout our conversation, we drew parallels between the American system and the British D&T curriculum, noting both similarities and differences. It was refreshing to learn that despite the different terminology and structures, we face many similar challenges in promoting and developing our subject.

Overall, this international perspective provided valuable insights into how design and technology education is approached in another part of the world.
(Text generated by AI, edited by Alison Hardy)

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