Technological Education (Tech Ed) opens doors to specialized programs like the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), offering students hands-on, real-world learning experiences. These courses are perfect for bundling with other subjects, integrating with Co-op, and connecting with industry through Skills Canada and Skills Ontario competitions.
Tech Ed also partners with programs like OYAP and Dual Credit, giving students a head start on their post-secondary paths. With modern, project-based learning, Tech Ed equips students with in-demand skills, making it a valuable addition to any student’s education.
Technological Education (Tech Ed) courses are well suited for inclusion in some programs leading to a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) or in programs designed to provide pathways to particular apprenticeship or workplace destinations.
For some SHSM programs, Tech Ed courses can be bundled with other courses to provide the academic knowledge and skills important to particular industry sectors and required for success in the workplace and postsecondary education, including apprenticeship.
Tech Ed courses may even be combined with co-operative education (Co-op) credits to provide the workplace experience required for some SHSM programs and for various program pathways to apprenticeship and workplace destinations!
SHSM programs would also include sector-specific learning opportunities offered by employers, skills-training centres, colleges, universities, and community organizations.
Each year, Tech Ed students from across Ontario meet to collaborate in friendly competitions showcasing their technological skills through practical project-based contests. "Winners" join Tech Ed students from across Canada to compete for the nation's best Tech student!
Completions are available in almost every Tech Ed subject area. Encourage your school's staff and administration to participate. All costs and fees are usually covered by the school and/or school board. Students and teachers enjoy these annual events. Career and employers sponsor the events and are often present; this can lead to post-secondary opportunities for students that they otherwise would not have had.
Co-op
Co-operative Education is a great subject area to partner together with Technological Education. The subject areas and their courses and content complement each other, as does the learning and delivery style; hands-on, practical, and experiential. Students can even earn 'multiple' credits at one time. Connect with your Co-op and Tech Subject Department Heads for more information.
OYAP
The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program is a wonderful opportunity for students to jump-start their post-secondary pathway.
Dual Credit
This program provides students with a high school credit, and a College credit at the same time. This provides students with an opportunity to 'reach ahead' to post-secondary while still in high school, and save money when entering a post-secondary school as they will already have a credit obtained without cost to them. They will also be immersed in the post-secondary 'world', experiencing what it might be like to go to college or university. Transportation costs for students to attend their post-secondary school are also covered.
University or College Reach Aheads
There are many other opportunities for Tech Ed students to partner with universities or colleges to gain further experience in their chosen subject or career area for future studies. Contact your board Consultant, or university/college liaison for further details.