Captain, there be IT ahead
Sextant by stevecadman One thing is certain for 2009, and it is very likely to be change.
There has been some disquiet brewing how many secondary schools have quietly dismantled technology and IT areas of the curriculum, sometimes under the broad aim to create 'integrated' subjects. In reality, the result has sometimes been a poor caricature and does not provide any real scaffolding to encourage students to take up IT or trade subjects as a career. The reasons are of course quite complex but this and other directions taken by schools have not helped the skill shortages that are looming in both areas.
I note that QLD has just put IT and technology back onto the radar. There will be 12 domains offered over 3 years (Years 10-12). These are English, Maths, The Sciences, The Arts, HPE and Personal Development, History, Geographical Studies, Human and Social Sciences, Design and Technology, Business Studies, LOTE, and Information Technology. Each domain will have a core and electives (specialist, extension and transdisciplinary). With the senior phase now being Years 10-12, 'core' is really Year 10. .. yes, you read this right .. IT will have it's own domain - Information Technology.
Considering that some of the VELS or curriculum system in Victoria was inspired by the New Basics program from QLD, it is interesting to watch this development, those surrounding the national curriculum and the future of the VELS in Victoria.
I am curious what others think of this or the grouping of core subjects and domains that we have offer in Victoria?