Key factors which affect pupils performance in technology project work

This paper reports the findings of a study into the perceptions of pupils and teachers regarding factors affecting performance in technology project work. The research was carried out in eight case study schools selected from an initial survey of fifty schools in seven Local Education Authorities in the North East of England. It involved interviews with forty Year 11 pupils and eight Design and Realisation teachers from the Case Study Schools. The study forms part of an ongoing research project concerned with identifying the causes of de-motivation amongst pupils in Years 10 and 11 following courses in technology. Using the analysis of the data collected from the interviews, the paper will discuss the key factors which pupils and teachers perceive to affect performance in technology project work.