In Chapter 6, fibre production and food specialisations were studied. This chapter continues to examine the contexts of technologies by looking at engineering principles and systems, and materials and technologies specialisations. Engineering as a context for the study of technologies is a new area for primary and early childhood teachers to consider when programming for children’s learning. As a new area, it opens up new possibilities, particularly for girls (see Figure 7.1). Engineering as a profession in Australia is male dominated, with ‘women representing around 12% of practising and professional engineers’ (Engineering Australia, 2017). Teachers have a real opportunity to make a difference, not just through supporting the learning of engineering principles, but also through engaging and motivating young girls with regard to the delights of studying important engineering concepts.
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