Citizenship

Design and technology teachers have long been involved in teaching about the social, cultural, ethical and economic aspects of the subject as well as the technical aspects (developing and producing). Such teaching is an important element in preparing future citizens for life in an increasingly technological world.

Citizenship became a compulsory subject in England for KS3 (11-14 years) and KS4 (14-16 years) from August 2002. Full details, together with exemplar units of work, are available from QCDA.

The requirements are slightly differently expressed for Wales, but the same fundamental knowledge, skills, attitudes and values are to be taught. The same could be said for the Northern Ireland curriculum, and for Scotland, where there is a well established principle of teaching technology through social and cultural contexts. Although each of the five nations has its own take on citizenship, there is considerable common ground between them.