The centrality of engineering graphics and design in studying technical subjects: A case of a university of technology in Kwazulu-Natal

Abstract

This mixed-methods study aimed to investigate the centrality of Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD) in technical subjects. Since the introduction of the technical stream, EGD has consistently been one of the compulsory subjects that learners are required to take alongside other trade subjects such as Civil Technology, Electrical Technology, and Mechanical Technology. However, in recent times, some teacher training universities have decided to remove EGD from the list of compulsory subjects for students pursuing the technical stream, a decision that has sparked a range of mixed reactions. Consequently, this necessitated an enquiry through employing purposive sampling to select five technical lecturers in the school of education to gauge their insights. Data were collected through open-ended questionnaires and Civil Technology test scores from 56 students. Test scores were analysed descriptively using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 30 and open-ended questionnaires were analysed thermically. The findings suggest that EGD is very significant to students in the technical stream. This is based on the analysis that revealed that students doing EGD performed better compared to their counterparts in a Civil Technology test. Findings further reveal that lecturers believe EGD should be a mandatory subject for students undertaking technical subject, as it provides foundational knowledge for drawing-related topics covered in technical subjects. Based on this, the study recommends that all students enrolled in the technical stream should be required to take EGD in their first year of study to ensure they acquire essential drawing skills relevant to their field.