posted on 2008-06-27, 14:47authored byDavid Spendlove
This paper examines the context of boys’ performance in design and
technology, a subject which has evolved from a traditionally male-dominated
subject to one where girls are achieving higher levels of examination success
than boys at all levels. By examining the extent of girls' superiority over boys
in design and technology, and the changing role of boys and males in society,
the many reasons for the notional underachievement of boys can be
explored.
From the literary review and school-based study that took place, assessment
arises as the essential mechanism in defining underachievement. This paper
concludes with the proposal that before labelling any group as
underachievers, the system that defines underachievement must be fully
investigated.
History
School
Design
Research Unit
D&T Association Conference Series
Citation
SPENDLOVE, D., 2000. Gender issues – raising the attainment of boys in design and technology. IN: Kimbell, R. (ed.). Design and Technology International Millennium Conference. Wellesbourne : The D&T Association, pp. 189-195.