PATT40: A Celebration of Innovation and Education

Published 8th November 2023

Design and Technology Association's attendance at PATT40

 The Design and Technology Association recently marked its commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in design and technology education by exhibiting at the 40th edition of the Pupils' Attitudes Towards Technology (PATT) conference, commonly referred to this year as PATT40. This conference encompasses discussions, research papers, insights, and progressive ideas around D&T and wider STEM education.

Understanding PATT40

The PATT conference series has served as a global platform for educators, researchers, and professionals passionate about technology education since the 1980s. PATT40 continued this tradition, providing an invaluable space for exchanging knowledge, exploring trends, and initiating dialogues about the challenges and opportunities within technology education.

PATT40 focused on "Technology Education for 2030 and Beyond." This theme aimed to address the evolving landscape of technological advancements and their impact on educational models. It encouraged participants to contemplate the necessary adaptations and innovations in education to prepare students for a future shaped by rapid technological changes.

Key Highlights and Insights

PATT40 offered insights and highlights, showcasing the evolving landscape of technology education. Key discussions and presentations revolved around:

·        Future Skills: Deliberations on the essential skills and competencies needed in the future, emphasising critical thinking, adaptability, and digital literacy.

·        Innovation in Pedagogy: Exploring innovative teaching methods, project-based learning, and the integration of emerging technologies in education.

·        Sustainability and Design: Addressing the role of design and technology in promoting sustainability, environmental consciousness, and ethical considerations.

·        Collaborative Initiatives: Highlighting the importance of collaboration between industry experts, educators, and policymakers to shape the future of education.

Looking Ahead

The insights gathered from PATT40, including the contributions of the Design and Technology Association, will serve as a guiding light for the future of technology education. As we progress towards an era driven by technological advancements, the knowledge, connections, and initiatives established at PATT40 will play a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape.

PATT40, through its comprehensive discussions and presentations, has reinforced the importance of adapting and evolving teaching practices to equip students with the skills required to thrive in an ever-changing technological world.          

Our CEO Tony Ryan was a keynote speaker at the event and explained, “Many, many years ago, as a young Head of Department of a D&T faculty in West London, I dreamed of attending PATT,  an international research conference really digging deep into a subject that fascinated me. I finally got to not only attend the PATT40 conference in Liverpool but was also privileged to be asked to deliver a keynote on the Design and Technology Association’s work. Better still, I met so many wonderful colleagues from around the world, had some great discussions and learned so much.”

This subject is alive and well, and research is at the core of its revival.