Technology Education

The Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S. Ed.) Technology Education program at the University of Idaho prepares you to teach secondary-level students technology skills associated with construction, manufacturing, communications, transportation, power and energy. The program explores a variety of activities associated with human endeavors and focuses on developing problem-solving techniques that are useful in many careers, including teaching, business and industry.

The technology education degree is an option within the College of Education Professional-Technical and Technology Education program. Other options within this program include:

• Business and marketing education
• Professional-technical education 

As a student in the program, you will learn about such subjects as construction systems, computer-aided drafting, microcomputer applications and Web site design. The program also gives you the flexibility to specialize in the area of your particular interest.

Students receive hands-on training in a laboratory setting using tools and techniques that apply directly to the job setting. With personal guidance from our highly qualified faculty members, you will learn the most up-to-date technologies.

Prepare for Success

You may prepare for the technology education program by taking advantage of training in high school. Classes that teach technical knowledge and skills can give students a jump-start at the college level. It’s also a good idea to build your math and technical writing skills. Many high schools have programs that help prepare students for careers in technology, and some even offer college credits.

Your First Year

During your first year as a technology education student, you may take such courses as:

• Engineering Graphics
• Manufacturing Materials and Processes
• Basic Electronics
• Computer Applications

What You Can Do

An education degree with a technology education emphasis will prepare you to teach at a high school or industrial setting.

Opportunities

Society is realizing the value of technology education and is beginning to stress technology education at all levels. High school professional-technical education teachers are in high demand. Competitive salaries with full benefits, combined with summers off, make teaching a desirable career option. With free summers, teachers can pursue professional development opportunities, go on extended vacations, or become involved in community activities.

Current Research

Current research in the College of Education Department of Adult Career and Technology Education is exploring the combination of engineering aspects and technology education. The research is investigating how the addition of the engineering analytical element to the designing and building aspects of technology will help students better understand how the technology works.

Activities

The Technology Club offers events and opportunities for technology students to develop and apply their knowledge in society.

Hands-On Experience

To earn a teaching degree, you will spend an entire semester in an internship position at a high school. This degree option also gives you the opportunity to gain real-world experience using our laboratory equipment to build items for the university and community. You will get to know the teaching profession well as you collaborate with local schools and work with some outstanding, high-achieving high school students.

Faculty Involvement

A small student-to-faculty ratio provides a unique opportunity for students to interact closely with faculty.

James A. Gregson
Professor
Research foci: Development of a “green collar” workforce
» View James Gregson's Profile

Lee Ostrom, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
» View Lee Ostrom's Profile

Cheryl Wilhelmsen
Instructor
Research interests: Aviation Maintenance, Knowledge Capture
» View Cheryl Wilhelmsen's Profile