Cognitive Acceleration through Technology Education (CATE)
Authors: Tony Hamaker and John Backwell
CATE is
designed to enhance and develop thinking and reasoning processes at
Key Stage 3 within Design and Technology education. It is based on ideas
adapted from the Cognitive Acceleration through Science Education (CASE)
project and the Somerset Thinking Skills Course (STSC). CATE provides
a Teachers Handbook and three modules (with photocopiable activities
for the pupils) for use with years 7, 8 and 9.
Research shows that CATE:
· enhances the D&T capability of
students across the ability range
· enhances the thinking and reasoning abilities of students in
D&T, maths and science
· enhances teacher professional development at all levels of
D&T delivery, through the use of the CATE methodology
"Two years after the introduction of CATE
the Design and Technology department is now one of the most powerful
departments in the school, in terms of teaching and learning."
Head Teacher comment
About the Authors:
Tony Hamaker, an independent advisory teacher, has been associated with
the 'Thinking skills movement' since 1984. He is a CASE trainer and
experienced STSC trainer.
John Backwell, an independent advisory
teacher and ICT consultant, has been associated with the 'Thinking Skills
movement' since 1992. He is an accredited NOF ICT trainer.