Why Teachers Should Shape the D&T Curriculum: A Conversation with Amanda Mason and Ciaran Ellis

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In this episode of Talking D&T, I sit down with Amanda Mason and Ciaran Ellis to discuss their involvement in the Redesigning D&T project. We explore their motivations for joining the initiative and the valuable insights they've gained along the way.

Amanda, a secondary school teacher in the Northeast of England, shares how the project has deepened her understanding of the subject and its varied interpretations across schools. Ciaran, head of design technology in the Northwest, describes it as the best CPD he's ever had, empowering him to engage more confidently in academic discussions about the subject.

We examine the benefits of teachers participating in curriculum research, from personal growth to influencing policy. Both Amanda and Ciaran highlight the unexpected opportunities that have arisen from their involvement, including presenting at conferences and writing articles.

The conversation touches on the challenges of stimulating debate within the D&T community, particularly around contentious questions posed by the project. We discuss the importance of articulating our thinking about the subject, both within and outside the D&T community, to strengthen its profile and influence.

Finally, we consider why it's crucial for teachers to be involved in shaping the D&T curriculum through research. As Amanda aptly puts it, "Who's better informed about teaching design and technology than the teachers themselves?"

This episode offers a compelling look at how teachers can contribute to and benefit from curriculum research, potentially shaping the future of D&T education.

(Text generated by AI, edited by Alison Hardy)

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