Method for measuring technological literacy of 15-year-old pupils

The purpose of this thesis is to define a new, valid and reliable method for the holistic measurement of technological literacy (TL) which considers all three main components – knowledge (K), capabilities (C) and critical thinking and decision-making (CTDM). Technology education (TE) is a term encountered at all educational stages. The objective of its educational content is to impart TL that is manifested as technological K, C and the ability to CTDM specific to use of technologies, management and the evaluation of technologies. The latter three elements define TL. Specific to the subject Design and Technology, they are also to be found in the primary school curriculum. This thesis encompasses an overview and an assessment of the existing methods for measuring TL. Existing methods can measure only one component at a time; moreover, tools and instruments differ widely. Considering the disadvantages of the existing methods and the latest psychometric research results, a new method that can simultaneously measure, assess and evaluate all three main components of TL is proposed. This method is centered around standards for TL. Its key features are the construct-measure-result approach, test range definition usage and a genuine design approach facilitating determination of its test items. The method was first tested and evaluated by means of a pilot test deploying an upgrade of the current criteria to the post-test level and measurement validation. Such a method was further used to measure the TL of 15-year-old pupils in primary school. Two groups were placed within an experimental and a control environment, respectively. The data thus obtained were statistically treated for the purpose of validating the method’s reliability and validity. Factors influencing TL were determined and discussed. TE subjects within the framework of a given curriculum did/do not fully evolve, thus failing to incorporate the requisite TL parameters and standards and, therefore, failing to contribute to the creation of a more competitive technological environment in keeping with the needs and requirements of the Slovenian economy