Rationale for Automotive Technology

The modern automobile has become utilitarian and a purely functional object. Yet it is a complicated and wondrous thing. It is dependable, reliable, durable, and safe, with a wide array of accessories that make it comfortable and appealing for both drivers and passengers. With the emphasis on environment and economics, the car has moved into the next century with an air of mystery surrounding its future. The generic automotive technology curriculum components outlined in this IRP, identify the kinds of skills, attitudes, competencies, and qualities that form the foundation of an all-round technological education.

The proliferation of technological change in the automobile has increased the scope of instruction required to prepare students for post-secondary, career or avocational pursuits. There is still the requirement to provide a base of knowledge and skills relating to the operation of the automobile; however, the need for further knowledge and skills continues to increase as automotive technology changes. Whereas in the past most repairs would be carried out by one technician, today, service and repairs to automobiles are increasingly conducted by automotive technicians who specialize in a particular area of vehicles. The trend to specialization within the automotive industry is not dissimilar to the trend toward specialization in other fields (e.g., the medical and legal fields).

Preparing for Transition to Post-secondary Education

The primary focus of this IRP is on the ÒintroductoryÓ Grade 11 and Grade 12 Automotive Technology courses. Automotive Technology 11 and 12 provide students with a general base knowledge of the maintenance and operation of the automobile. The scope of the knowledge required is such that students wishing to pursue automotive technology, either for career or personal goals, require a broader knowledge base. Such students can be given opportunities to increase their knowledge through additional courses. More advanced Automotive Technology programs are designed to help students make career choices, and to develop the necessary marketable skills to expand their knowledge and education in the technology field. Students who wish to pursue careers in the automotive technology field, may use their secondary school programs towards a number of options. For example:

• automotive technician
• automotive collision repair technician
• heavy duty equipment technician
• automotive parts sales
• automotive equipment sales and service
• automotive service management.
  

Preparing for the Workplace

Students will have opportunities to understand the relationship of automotive technology to a wide variety of career opportunities. The Automotive Technology program provides knowledge, skills, and attitudes for related careers.

The Automotive Technology field increasingly requires employees to upgrade their knowledge and skills to keep up with the new technologies through regular retraining and professional development activities. For example, the increasing complexity of the automobile requires future technicians to have a sound approach to problem-solving and diagnostic procedures.

Avocational Pursuits

The automobile plays a major role in the majority of people's lives, whether it is used for daily transportation or used for pleasure. Students will have opportunities to understand the maintenance and operation of the automobile. This knowledge will allow them to either maintain or repair their own automobiles, or provide them with the required skills to discuss their automotive needs with automotive technicians.