Technology 2006

Technology location Germany in search of a new identity
The engineering profession lacks orientation on sustainability, schools are considered to be technology-hostile

From the 20th to the 28th of May 2006, the technology corporation ThyssenKrupp hosted the IdeaPark (IdeenPark). In view of the acute lack of engineers, the main objective of this large-scale technological world of experience was aimed at enthusing young people about natural scientific and technological issues and professions. nextpractice, as partner of the IdeaPark 2006, contributed two activities. It set up an Idea Workshop, a nextmoderator-based online idea stock exchange in which over 2000 teenagers and young adults expressed their visions about the future of technology, education and society. During the run-up to the event, 100 persons were interviewed on the subject of technology using nextexpertizer. The survey revealed that the engineering profession was stuck in the middle of a dilemma. Although regarded as practical and highly appropriate, the profession is hardly associated with social and ecological aspects. Schools were certified as being technology-hostile – especially among the under 25s.  

 Article in the Financial Times Germany (English translation)