The Technological Knowledge Strand Explanatory Papers Updated May 2010
Technological Systems
Possible learning experiences
Junior Secondary (Years 9-10)
Possible learning experiences
The learning experiences suggested below have been provided to support teachers as they develop their understanding of the Technological Systems component of Technological Knowledge, and how this understanding could be reflected in student achievement at various levels. There is no expectation that these would form the basis of any specific unit of work in technology. The learning experiences have been written in such a way as to support student learning across a range of levels. This stance reflects the majority of classrooms where it is expected that students will demonstrate a range of levels of achievement.
Students could investigate the computer network within their school to identify and explore how it meets both technical feasibility and social acceptability specifications. They could also identify subsystems within the system, establish the transformation and connectivity properties of these, and the interface implications for effective integration into the system. Students could explore the way that the system has been designed so that failure in a particular subsystem is managed to guard against overall system failure and/or damage. This may be by way of alternative paths or shutdown options.
Extensive investigation could be undertaken to uncover the workings of a black box within the identified system. Issues associated with ongoing support and maintenance could be explored and suggestions made for the different levels of expertise required to develop, use, maintain, and repair their school computer systems.
Students achieving at level 3 could be expected to:
- describe their school computer network using appropriate symbols and language to represent its components and connections; and
- identify examples of black boxes within the network and suggest how these may be viewed differently by members of the school community.
Students achieving at level 4 could be expected to:
- identify control mechanisms within the network and explain how they influence different transformations;
- explain how control mechanisms enhance the system's fitness for purpose as a school network; and
- communicate, using specialised language and drawings, system-related details that would allow others to create a feasible and acceptable network system.
Students achieving at level 5 could be expected to:
- identify all subsystems within the network and explain their transformation and connectivity properties; and
- discuss how the interface between each subsystems allows the network to work together effectively.
