Take your passion for hands-on learning & technology & turn it into a rewarding career in teaching!
The Technology Teacher Education (TTED) program enables you to teach technology education in BC's Middle and High School system. Offered as a joint program with the University of British Columbia (UBC), it explores technical components at BCIT and the teaching component at UBC. It has three components:
Academic Component
Completion of 30 credits of university transfer Liberal Arts and science courses including six credits of English.
Technological Component
Completion of the two-year Diploma of Technology Teacher Education at BCIT.
Pedagogical Component
Completion of professional teacher education studies at UBC.
When all three of the above program components have been completed a Bachelor of Education Degree is awarded by UBC. B.Ed degree holders qualify for a BC Professional Teaching Certificate.
program entry
If you are passionate about teaching and are excited about
blending technical skills and knowledge with academics, then this may be an excellent career path for you.
If you have questions regarding the entrance requirements or the application process, visit Admission & Registration or if you want to discuss the program in more detail, contact the Program Head, Roger_Bortignon@bcit.ca or call 604.412.7412.
Principles of Math 11 (C) or Academic Math 11 (C) or Applications of Math 11 (C)
Any Science 11 (C)
Check for acceptable equivalent courses taught in BC high schools. If you are missing a required course, BCIT offers upgrading courses through part-time studies.
All applicants must submit a current resume with their application.
All applicants must submit the following three confidential letters of reference. Confidential letters of reference must include the referee's phone number and signature, and must be submitted in an envelope with the referee's signature across the sealed flap.
A character reference letter supporting suitability for teaching
A technical reference letter supporting technical capability and experience
A reference letter outlining experience and capability of working with young people
BC provincial exams
For programs beginning in August 2007 or later which require Grade 12 Math and Science courses, BCIT will not require the applicant to write the provincial exam. Provincial exam marks will still be required for English 12, Communications 12, and Technical and Professional Communications 12.
Opportunities exist within the Technology Teacher Education program at BCIT for students to receive Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR) credit for skill and knowledge they possess that aligns with the TTED program goals and the teachable technical subject areas in schools. When applying for PLAR credit, students must illustrate their applicable skill and knowledge through a variety of testimonials, portfolios, demonstrations, and tests.
Technology entry
The Technology Entry (TE) program is a full-time, day school program which provides academic upgrading to students wishing to enrol in Computing, Engineering, Electronic and Health Sciences programs at BCIT.
The TE program provides courses in chemistry, communication, mathematics and physics that meet program prerequisites for selected programs at BCIT. The program also includes an introductory course in computer applications and a learning skills course. The program is supportive to those who require English-language training.
Application processing
October 1 of the previous year until the program fills.
Applications are considered for a specific intake.
costs & supplies
Graduates of the Technology Teacher Education program (TTED) are eligible to have 40% of their students loan forgiven.
For further information on this opportunity, contact the Program Head, Roger Bortignon.
Here is a link to the current list of required supplies [PDF, 0.1 MB].
Tuition fees
Please see the Fees, Payments and Refunds section of the website for more information on full-time tuition fees.
Books and supplies
Level 1: $882; Level 2: $33; Level 3: $101; Level 4: $275
(general estimated cost, and subject to change)
courses
Term Structure
Each year of the TTED program is divided into two terms – the first
term runs from September to December (15 weeks) and the second term
runs from January to the third week in May (20 weeks) with a one week
break in the middle. In level 1 of the program, the introductory
courses run in the first 5 weeks and are then followed by the 10 week
foundations courses.
A typical week
You will spend 30 hours each week in labs and lectures. Overall,
approximately 75% of your time is spent in labs, and 25% in lectures,
giving you the ability to understand the theory and principles while
learning vital, practical skills.
Small class sizes help you learn
The TTED program accepts 22 students each year. Small classes
encourage an atmosphere of camaraderie, healthy competition and
teamwork as well as allowing instructors to provide plenty of individual
attention to students.
Program matrix
Level 1 (September - December, 15 weeks)
Credits
COMM 3394
Communication for TTED
COMM 3394 is designed to give you the communication skills and knowledge you will need as a technology teacher in two specific areas. 1. Technical communication- all teachers in BC schools are expected to be able to teach literacy skills in their own subject areas. Your subject area of technology has its own conventions and formats, which you?ll learn in this course. 2. Communication in the classroom- as a technology teacher you will have to know how to incorporate communication activities into your assignments and how to communicate effectively with colleagues, future parents & students, and management. COMM 3394 focuses mainly on technical formats and conventions, with some attention on pedagogical and academic applications. You'll begin by learning basic procedures for organizing and writing a technical document with particular emphasis on the various audiences that your document will impact in the school environment. Then you?ll learn how to use accepted formats for routine technical and business communication. Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to provide thoughtful and meaningful feedback to peers. Oral and visual communication is emphasized throughout the course.
This math course and its counterpart, MATH 4943, concentrate on skills necessary for the teaching of applied math in mechanical, electronics, and general technology material at the secondary level. Topics include Imperial and SI units; percent; determining perimeters, areas, and volumes; solving various flow rate problems; manipulating linear expressions and equations.
This course introduces students to the basics of graphic communication as a design tool. Students will gain ability in rapid visualization techniques to effectively communicate ideas on paper. Sketching will be done from real life as well as from imagination. A second component of the course will introduce students to the basics of mechanical drawings used to communicate information needed to build parts and assemblies. Prerequisites: TTED 3009
This is a competency-based course which provides basic skill and understanding in precision measurement to enable successful completion of the Tech Ed Diploma course work. Measurement expertise will be gained in the use of micrometers, vernier calipers, and dial indicators. Both imperial and metric systems of measurement will be learned.
This course introduces the basic design of structures, strength of materials and stress analysis at an appropriate level for pre-service Technology Education teachers. Principles of math, science, technology and engineering are learned in an integrated way. Besides receiving formal instruction, students will solve statics problems as well as design, build and test scale structures. Prerequisites: TTED 3009 and TTED 3002 and TTED 3020 and TTED 3030 and TTED 3040
This course introduces the basic principals and methods of joining wood, metals, and plastics. Methods covered will include solvent cementing of plastics, gluing and clamping of woods, soldering, brazing, fusion welding and gluing of metals, and an introduction to a range of mechanical fasteners appropriate for use in public school Technology Education facilities. Prerequisites: TTED 3009 and TTED 3002 and TTED 3020 and TTED 3030 and TTED 3040
This course introduces students to the basics of formal design processes. Various design models will be discussed and illustrated through practical implementation. Design needs will be explored and students will design solutions to various problems concluding in full or scaled models. Documentation of the design process as well as the end solution will be considered in course evaluation. Prerequisites: TTED 3009
This course will be an introduction to general shop safety for pre-service Technology Education teachers. Topics covered will include an introduction to WHMIS, the safe handling and storage of materials, identification of hazards, accident prevention, and the use of emergency fire equipment.
Provides students with the computer skills to complete assigned work to the standard required in Technology Teacher Education courses and the public schools of British Columbia. Introduces BCIT lab procedures and regulations, the current Windows operating system, the detection and removal of viruses, file management strategies, the creation of web pages and the rudiments of the Microsoft Office suite.
This course introduces students to basic hand tools and related processes used to work with metal. Jeweler's saws, sheet metal machines, drill press, abrasive belt sander and mechanics hand tools are also included. Students will learn accurate layout procedures, selection, set up and safe use of these tools and machines for specific operations. Lecture content will support hands on practical project work.
As a continuation from TTED 3020 this course introduces students to the basic operation and use of metal lathes and milling machines. Students will learn how to select appropriate procedures for specific operations and to develop logical sequences for the production of a project. Safe work practices will be emphasized and lecture content will support hands on work. Prerequisites: TTED 3002 and TTED 3020
This course introduces students to the basic hand tools and processes used to manipulate wood (and plastics) for practical constructions. Students will learn how to select, set up and use appropriate tools for specific operations. Basic nomenclature and specifications will be outlined and applied to the school-based context.
This course introduces students to the basic machines and processes used to manipulate wood (and plastics) for practical constructions. Students will learn how to select the most appropriate piece of equipment for specific operations. Basic nomenclature, specifications and safety will be outlined and applied to the school based context. Prerequisites: TTED 3009 and TTED 3002 and TTED 3030 and TTED 3040
This course will be an introduction to the identification of the basic metals, plastics and wood that are commonly found in public school Technology Education facilities.
This course will introduce engines and the conventions of BHP and Torque measurement comparison. Students will learn the basics of engines, ignition and fuel systems and will gain practical hands-on experience with engine operation and maintenance. Prerequisites: TTED 3009 and TTED 3002 and TTED 3020 and TTED 3030 and TTED 3040
Introduces the basic concepts, terminology and processes used in electronics. Circuits are breadboarded and then tested with common electronic test equipment. The course emphasizes theory and practice appropriate in public school Technology Education electronics programs. Prerequisites: TTED 3009 and TTED 3002 and TTED 3020 and TTED 3030 and TTED 3040
This course is a continuation of COMM 3394. It covers three areas that will prepare you for your further studies and your teaching career: 1. Technical communication - as a technology teacher you need to know several specialized types of technical communication suitable to technology education classes. 2. Communication in the classroom - you will also have to know how to incorporate communication activities into your assignments, particularly because all teachers in BC are mandated to be teachers of literacy in their own specialized areas. 3. Academic communication - in order to succeed in your educational career, you'll need to be able to communicate in an academic context. Prerequisites: COMM 3394
A continuation of MATH 3942. Topics include binary and other number systems; mean and standard deviation; functions and graphs; the straight line; slope and distance; solving inequalities and systems of equations; factoring; solving quadratic equations; solving mixture, investment and other word problems; radians; right-angle trigonometry; oblique trigonometry.
This course builds on the fundamental skills and principles of visual literacy and design experienced in the foundation courses and applies them to the preparation of working drawings for product manufacture. A study in interior design and architecture will also provide a basis for aesthetic and structural synthesis. Students will apply the basics of formal drafting techniques, standards and conventions in both electronic and free hand formats. Prerequisites: TTED 3000 and TTED 3002 and TTED 3003 and TTED 3004 and TTED 3005 and TTED 3040
This course introduces students to computer applications and software that is typically of use to public school Technology Education teachers. Prerequisites: TTED 3010
This course covers the principles and systems of manufacturing and construction, using wood, metal and synthetic materials. Using design, planning and processing skills, students will produce individual as well as group solutions to manufacturing challenges appropriate for public school Technology Education programs. Unique prototyping and mass-production methods will be experienced by students. Appropriate safe work and material handling procedures will be stressed throughout the course. Prerequisites: TTED 3000 and TTED 3003 and TTED 3004 and TTED 3005 and TTED 3021 and TTED 3031 and TTED 3010 and TTED 3060
Considers the computer in the role of a controlling device and its application as such in the Technology Education classroom. Topics include Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming, introduction to the set-up and operating procedures for CNC machines, and using the personal computer (PC) to will be included. Students will use the PC to control devices using programs of their own design. Appropriate safety equipment is required for all shop-based activities. control small machines, lamps, etc. Some manufacturing on CNC machines Prerequisites: TTED 3010 and TTED 3021 and TTED 3031
Material Science for Technology Teacher Education (TTED)
This course will examine the physical and chemical properties of various materials suitable for use in public school Technology Education programs. Emphasis will be on how properties influence the selection of materials for specific applications as well as how material properties determine specialized fabrication techniques. Prerequisites: TTED 3000 and TTED 3003 and TTED 3004 and TTED 3005 and TTED 3021 and TTED 3031 and TTED 3010 and TTED 3040
This course is designed to engage participants in a series of discussions relating to the process of becoming a professional teacher and the teaching environment. It includes three one day school visits designed to acquaint students with current practices in British Columbia's secondary school system.
Introduces the use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software and their applications in the technology education classroom. Feature-based parametric 3D modeling software is used for the design of parts and simple assemblies as well as the production of working drawings. Part models can then be imported to CAM software to generate CNC programs to manufacture components on a CNC machine. 2D part profiles can also be created using the CAM software. Students will learn to assign appropriate toolpaths and generate CNC machine code using the CAM software. Machine setup and application of fixtures for part manufacturing is also covered. Appropriate safety equipment is required for all shop-based activities. Prerequisites: TTED 4000 and TTED 4010 and TTED 4025 and TTED 4035 and TTED 4040
This course will continue the investigations that began in TTED 3050, into various engine and related support system design, function and maintenance in detail. Transmission of power, robot design and function will also be included. Lab work and self directed shop projects will be used to provide students with practical experience to support the theory material studied. Prerequisites: 65% in TTED 3050 and TTED 4000 and TTED 4010 and TTED 4025 and TTED 4035 and TTED 4040
This course will investigate aspects of electronic components, power supplies, digital and linear electronic systems which are essential to teaching electronics in schools. It will begin at an introductory level and will take students to an intermediate level. Students will be involved in project design, theory and testing, circuit board and project construction. Appropriate safety and presentation of electronics information in school programs will be emphasized. Prerequisites: 65% in TTED 3060 and TTED 4000 and TTED 4010 and TTED 4025 and TTED 4035 and TTED 4040
Provides an introduction to a wide range of topics related to teaching technical and vocational subjects in schools. Includes the development and preparation for delivery of an activity that will satisfy the outcomes of the provincial technology education Instructional Resource Packages or the new Workplace Program Guides. Prerequisites: TTED 3050 and TTED 3060 and TTED 4000 and TTED 4010 and TTED 4025 and TTED 4035 and TTED 4040 and TTED 4070
This course covers the equipment, materials and skills necessary to teach metal materials at the senior secondary level. Casting, forming, conditioning advanced and non-traditional machining will be covered. Consideration will be given to the role of the machine shop in public school Technology Education programs. Prerequisites: TTED 4025 and TTED 4001 and TTED 4040 and TTED 4036
Introduces the concept of 3- dimensional computer-based modeling as a tool in the design and manufacture of artifacts. Presents various means of producing, viewing and employing models including wire frames, surfaces, and solids. Considers the use of CAM software to create 3-dimensional models and generate toolpaths to machine complex surfaces using CNC machines.
This course applies advanced design and construction skills to practical constructions in wood. The history and trends in furniture design will be analysed, concluding with contemporary expressions. Design evaluation will consider technical execution, ethical use of materials, planning and time management. Value-added, found and recycled materials will be encouraged for specific assignments. Exercises in advanced machining operations, techniques and set-ups will broaden the range of possible design solutions. CNC machine control will be incorporated. Prerequisites: TTED 4025 and TTED 4001 and TTED 4040 and TTED 4036
This course focuses on assisting students in developing abilities to teach automotive courses at the senior secondary school level. Through related theory and live car repair work on the entire automobile including the engine and its support systems, the power train, brakes, suspension and body will be studied. Use of contemporary maintenance and diagnostic equipment will be included. Social issues related to the automobile will be considered. Safety and issues concerned with supervising students working on clients cars will also be addressed. Prerequisites: TTED 4050
This course teaches the concepts of electronics suited to the secondary school level using problem solving and design methods. Individual projects based on linear, digital and microcontroller technology will develop skills package preparation. in design, troubleshooting, construction and Prerequisites: TTED 4060
This is largely a self directed course where students apply knowledge and skills acquired throughout the TTED program to solve a technical problem that has application to Technology Education in schools. Included will be: research, design, construction, reporting and a final forum presentation. Prerequisites: All 4th level courses.
Instruction in safe work and materials handling practices is embedded in all TTED courses at BCIT. Opportunity exists throughout the TTED Program for students to practice safe procedures and to receive guidance while working in our labs. At the end of the fourth term of the program each student's knowledge of and ability to identify safe work procedures will be tested in a written comprehensive "Safety Across the Technology Education Curriculum" examination.
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if
they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's
Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
program details
The first year of Technology Teacher Education covers foundational theory and practice, such as:
material science, structures, shop safety and mathematics
hand and power tools, computer control, and software design tools
electronics, woodworking, metal and plastics fabrication, design, drawing and power technology
Your second year drills deeper into theoretical and practical
coursework which further examines a wide variety of technical areas:
furniture design, automotive diagnostics, power and energy
technologies
computer aided design and manufacturing, and digital
electronics
You will learn how to incorporate design, problem-solving
skills and knowledge about tools, materials and processes.
Watch the 2009 Vehicle in a Box Challenge
Program length
Two years, full-time.
Program structure
Normally, the academic component requirements will be completed before candidates begin the technological component at BCIT. However, applicants may apply to complete parts of the academic component after they complete the technical component at BCIT. Students must complete the BCIT TTED diploma and at least the 6 credits of English (3 credits in literature, 3 credits in composition) before attending UBC.
graduating & jobs
Job Opportunities
Certified Technology Education teachers are in high demand
throughout BC. As well, opportunities exist in many BC High Schools for Technology Education Teachers to teach in Career Preparation programs and High School Apprenticeship program options.
Technology Teacher Education may also lead to careers in post-secondary training, industry training or other occupations that require technical generalists.
Graduate employment outcomes
The following link takes you to graduate outcome survey results containing mostly labour market results from the 2005-2007 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2004-2006 Graduates. Note: The survey results will be displayed in a separate browser window. To view these results, you need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.
Roger Bortignon, Cert IETE, BEd, MEd, Program Head
James Bartz, DiplT, BEd, MEd
Phil Esworthy, BA (PolSci), Cert IETE, BEd, MEd
Ernie Higgins, Technical Assistant
Randall Schultz, BEd, MEd
Bruce Van Groenigen, DipTech, DipProvInst, DipAdultEd, BAdultEduc, MAdultEduc
Paul Morrison, DiplT, BEng, AScT, Associate Dean
Trevor Williams, BSc, MSc (Mech Eng), PEng, Dean, School of Manufacturing, Electronics and Industrial Processes
Advisory Committee
Paul Boscariol, LV Rogers Secondary School
Blane Despres, UBC Okanagan
Rita Irwin, University of British Columbia
Angie MacDicken, Moody Middle School
Les Neufeld, Quesnel Secondary School
Jim Scoten, Templeton Secondary School
contact us
Spend-A-Day with Us
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with us. You'll meet students and instructors, and get a hands-on feel
for what the program is about. Find out more »
If you want to discuss the program in more detail, contact the Program Head, Roger_Bortignon@bcit.ca or 604.412.7412.
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As BCIT strives to keep our programs current, programs and courses are subject to change without notice.
"Some days I can't believe I get paid for this", says Angie MacDicken, a technology teacher at Moody Middle School. Angie loves her job, and highly recommends the BCIT Technology Teachers Education program.
Les Lowe is making a major career shift to become a technology teacher. Last year, he completed the two-year diploma in Technology Teacher
Education at BCIT, and he is completing his teaching degree this year at the University of British Columbia.