Technology and innovation

Abstract

This chapter uncovers Singapore’s stories of technological innovations that emerge after Singapore’s gaining independence in 1959. Among the notable milestones of technological innovations is Singapore’s Masterplans for ICT in Education from 1997 that start from the national initiative in building technological structure in schools, developing engaged learning framework and the innovations for teaching and learning (also in line with C2015 curriculum framework). Next, the Singapore water story of its technology to solve Singapore’s long standing (of 50 years) water challenges in 2002. These milestones provide the compelling evidence to mark Singapore’s successful survival as a nation and building capability among the people. These milestones are closely related to Singapore’s progress from the early industrialisation of labour intensive economy (1960s-1970s) to capital intensive phase of economic restructuring (1980s) and newly industrialised economy (1990) and intensive phase (2000) of globalised and diversified economy. These technological innovations are authentic lessons that encompass the 21st century pedagogy and the skills of collaboration, problem solving, inquiry, thinking and ICT skills.