Technological change and education and training

Highlights the enforced alterations in education caused by technological change. Notes the shift from rote learning to developing greater understanding, and the demise of apprenticeships in favour of vocational qualifications. Discusses the confusion which arose in the 1980s as some students and teachers had difficulty grasping what required memory and what needed to be understood. Describes the “keys to understanding” approach, whereby both understanding of a particular situation and learning skills generally were enhanced. Outlines the need for flexibility and the increase in work teams, arguing that schools have not kept up with changes in industry.