Four Little Dragons' Technology Education.

Secondary-level technology programs in Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan (also known as the "Four Little Dragons") were compared by using a methodology incorporating four stages: description, interpretation, juxtaposition, and comparison. It was discovered that, in all four countries, technology education is required for all students in the lower secondary grades (grades 7-9) and offered on an elective basis to students in the upper secondary grades (grades 10-12). A trend toward increasing incorporation of information technology into technology education was noted in all four countries. Emphasis on higher-order thinking skills and the role of problem solving in the design process also appeared to be increasing in all four countries. Among the common problems faced by all four countries in the implementation of technology education were the following: lack of qualified teachers and adequate equipment; insufficient financial support and teaching hours; and out-of-date curricula. More dialogue among technology educators from Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan is necessary. All four countries' chances of fostering technology education are good provided they engage in ongoing and systematic curriculum development and effective professional supervision. (MN)