The engineering abilities needed by the successful New Zealand orchardist in the 1990s: A basis for curriculum development

Abstract

This study aimed to establish statements of the engineering abilities requires by New Zealand orchardists in the 1990s as a basis for theory-informed curriculum development. Engineering inputs on orchards are significant capital investments and items of recurrent cost. The complexity and interdisciplinary nature of the orchardist's role was clearly indicated by the range of abilities thought to be required in the 1990s. The emphasis given by participants to management-orientated abilities characterises the successful orchardist of the future as primarily a manager calling upon expert assistance when required. Further research is required to obtain the views of students, determine curricula needs for occupations supporting orchardists and identify methods that ensure the implementation and evaluation of theory-informed curriculum development.