The decision by New York State educators to create a new area of study and to require it of all students grew out of the realization that technology pervades almost every aspect of life. Technology education prepares students to use technology and offers the means to assess and influence the impact of technology on society and the environment. It is a hands-on instructional program that inculcates higher-level thinking processes. One unique aspect is the laboratory-based Technology Learning Activity, in which tasks and learning are matched to specific objectives in the course syllabus. The purpose of the technology education program is to make all New York State students technologically literate. Technology education evolved from the industrial arts curriculum, which was substantially revised to reflect the mission of the new discipline. By the end of eighth grade, all New York State students must complete Introduction to Technology. At the high school level, technology education is an elective subject. Technology education courses provide students with a broad base of skills and competencies. Examples of courses specifically designed to improve competitiveness in the global marketplace include Creativity and Innovation, Design and Drawing for Production, and Introduction to Engineering. (YLB)