Materials as an introduction to science and technology

The purpose of this study was to collect data on the preparation of students' knowledge in the area of materials science which is the building block for all engineers. The specific aim for this study is to determine how school science impacts on years 11 and 12 science studies in the areas of materials science, and further tertiary studies. The investigated data were analysed post hoc from public education records. The data were analysed to determine any trends and falling off in enrolments in the final years of high school. The data did reveal a trend in science enrolments falling off as students progressed into the later years of high school. Observations revealed that in advanced years of high school, the student population in science subjects were not well prepared for future studies in materials science at a tertiary level. It is suggested that science subjects be made more popular especially in the areas of materials science by syllabus changes, improving the way subjects are taught, and making materials science an appealing part of the syllabus.