The routines and rituals of a design and technology classroom: an ethnographic study

This study outlines issues identified from an ethnographic study of an Australian secondary design and technology classroom. The aim of the study was to explore the features and characteristics of this classroom and examine how aspects of this micro-culture impact on teaching and learning. Of particular concern is discussion of an ethnographic methodology, and the subsequent product of that methodology, for examining and communicating aspects of design and technology culture. An account of this design and technology classroom includes description and discussion of four significant aspects of this culture. The first examines the predominant masculine culture within this learning area. The second is the story of four girls and their perceived exclusion from right of passage into design and technology. Third is an account of the various perceptions of status in design and technology compared with the more traditionally liberal pursuits. The final point looks at the impact of the historical genesis of design and technology on this culture. Implications of aspects of this culture are discussed, as is the benefit of commencing an ethnography of design and technology education. The paper highlights the need to address this culture in order to understand its impact on classroom life.