The Problem with Transition in Technology Education: A Scottish Perspective

This paper is based on an evaluation of a pilot project using Nuffield materials which was carried out in two Scottish secondary schools and their associated primary schools. The pilot was intended to address problems identified at the transition stage from primary to secondary in design and technology. Interviews conducted with staff in both sectors highlight important concerns regarding transition. The paper describes the Scottish technology education system, with particular emphasis on its similarity to the English Key Stages 1, 2 and 3. A discussion of the evaluation of the pilot project is given and issues concerning transition are considered and discussed. Whilst the Scottish technology curriculum differs in some important aspects from the English system, generic and pertinent issues exist which have relevance in relation to the transition process in many countries