Facing a shortage of skilled tradespeople and a growing recognition of the value of hands-on learning, high schools across the U.S. are reviving shop classes. These modernized programs, often incorporating advanced technologies like robotics and 3D printing alongside traditional woodworking and metalworking, aim to equip students with practical skills applicable to various industries. The resurgence is driven by employer demand, student interest in alternatives to college, and a desire to foster problem-solving abilities and critical thinking. These revamped shop classes offer pathways to well-paying jobs directly after graduation or provide a foundation for further technical education.
The UK possesses significant untapped hardware engineering talent, hindered by a risk-averse investment landscape that prioritizes software over hardware startups. This preference stems from the perceived higher costs and longer development timelines associated with hardware, leading to a scarcity of funding and support. Consequently, promising hardware engineers often migrate to software roles or leave the country altogether, depriving the UK of potential innovation and economic growth in crucial sectors like semiconductors, robotics, and clean energy. The author argues for increased investment and a shift in perspective to recognize the long-term value and strategic importance of fostering a thriving hardware ecosystem.
Hacker News users discuss the challenges and potential of the UK hardware industry. Several commenters point out the difficulty of competing with US salaries and stock options, making it hard to retain talent in the UK. Others argue that the UK's strength lies in specific niche areas like silicon design, photonics, and high-end audio, rather than mass-market consumer electronics. Some suggest that the UK's smaller market size discourages large-scale hardware ventures, while others highlight the role of universities and research institutions in fostering talent. There's also discussion about the impact of Brexit, with some claiming it has worsened the talent drain, while others downplay its effect. Finally, some commenters suggest potential solutions, like government incentives, increased investment, and fostering a stronger entrepreneurial culture to retain and attract hardware talent within the UK.
Summary of Comments ( 62 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43232087
Hacker News users generally lauded the return of shop class, citing the value of hands-on learning, problem-solving skills, and exposure to trades. Several commenters shared personal anecdotes about how shop class positively influenced their career paths, even if they didn't pursue a trade directly. Some expressed concern about the cost and difficulty of implementing these programs effectively, including the need for qualified instructors and adequate safety measures. The importance of incorporating modern technology like CAD and 3D printing into shop curriculum was also discussed. A few commenters cautioned against viewing shop class as a solution for all students, emphasizing the need for diverse educational pathways. There was also some discussion of the societal shift away from valuing vocational skills and how its resurgence could address the current skilled labor shortage.
The Hacker News post "Schools reviving shop class," linking to a Wall Street Journal article about the resurgence of shop classes, generated a significant number of comments discussing various facets of this trend.
Many commenters expressed strong support for shop classes, emphasizing the value of hands-on learning and the development of practical skills. They argued that these classes provide a valuable alternative learning pathway for students who might not thrive in traditional academic settings. Several users shared personal anecdotes about how shop class positively impacted their lives and careers, even if they didn't pursue trades directly. The sentiment that these classes teach valuable problem-solving skills and a sense of accomplishment was prevalent. Some also highlighted the importance of shop class in fostering an appreciation for craftsmanship and the workings of the physical world.
A recurring theme in the discussion was the perceived decline of shop classes in past decades and the societal factors that contributed to it. Some attributed the decline to an overemphasis on college preparation and a devaluation of vocational skills. Others pointed to budget cuts and shifting educational priorities. The current revival of shop class was seen as a positive corrective to these trends, reflecting a renewed recognition of the importance of trade skills and the need for a more diverse educational landscape.
Several commenters discussed the practical aspects of implementing and sustaining shop programs. Concerns were raised about the costs of equipment and materials, the need for qualified instructors, and the challenges of integrating shop classes into existing curricula. Some suggested partnerships with local businesses and community organizations as a way to address these challenges. The importance of safety training and proper supervision was also emphasized.
A few commenters offered more nuanced perspectives on the topic. Some cautioned against romanticizing shop class or viewing it as a panacea for all educational woes. They argued that a balanced approach is needed, one that values both academic and vocational skills. Others pointed out that the nature of shop class has evolved over time, with new technologies and manufacturing processes requiring updated curricula and equipment. The need for shop classes to adapt to the changing demands of the 21st-century workforce was a recurring point of discussion. Finally, some commenters linked the resurgence of shop class to broader trends like the maker movement and the growing interest in DIY culture.