Product Design

Developing Moral Capital

In Product we study and discuss the moral implications of our actions with regards to a number of areas including the sustainability of materials in the manufacture of products, the way various industries operate and the impact they can have on the environment, how design can affect people with disabilities in both an inclusive and non-inclusive way, and how future generations can make conscious decisions to work to improve local, national and global issues. Responsible design and commitment to improvement of quality of life for users. Students have to comment and support each other when they complete presentations and respect other views. students have to discuss the moral, social and ethical design considerations, including less child labour and safe working conditions. Being aware of the environment, the 6 R's of sustainability, packaging considerations and less pollution when making products. Being aware of fair trade and the quality of life of and rights of workers. 

Developing Social Capital

Students will learn how to communicate their thoughts, ideas and designs effectively, work with others on a common outcome, and how to work closely with a client to develop a project that meets their needs as a user. Ideas and concepts are presented to peers for feedback and constructive criticism to inform future iterations. Students recognise the need to work collaboratively and the learning and experience gained from others. The interactions come in the form of interviews, observations, presentations and demonstrations. Collecting primary research to inform their design decision and collecting regular feedback will enable students to build their confidence as a designer and enable them to fully understand the needs of those that they are designing for.

Developing Cultural Capital

In Product Design students will learn how different cultures can affect the design of a product, for example how a design might be tailored to an aspect of the culture of a certain country only and how it might not be viable to sell the product worldwide. It is also important to understand the culture and beliefs of your client to be able to produce a product that meets their needs so working closely with them will enable students to produce effective design solutions. Students also have the opportunity to explore design outside of the classroom through trips and visits that allow greater exposure to design in the real world. Inclusivity plays an important part of the design process and identifies the many groups of people for whom products and services need to work for without discriminating against. This design approach enhances students understanding  and knowledge beyond their local demographic. Students are encouraged to develop culturally acceptable products that will not offend people of different race, gender or religious belief. Students also have to consider empathetic design and consider all users, designing and making products that are inclusive for as many users as possible - including elderly, children and people with disabilities.

Developing Knowledge Capital

Students will learn about a broad range of topics within design and technology from how industries use technology and how that links to the technology we use in a school based environment to developing their understanding of how the manufacture of goods contributes to climate change. Students have to develop a high level of manufacturing and workshop skills that will enhance their making and knowledge which will allow students to manufacture high quality innovative products. Students will develop their materials knowledge, including technical principles and characteristics of wood, metal, ceramics, plastics and any new and smart materials. Students are also expected to develop their knowledge of Digital design and manufacture, which includes CAD/CAM, virtual modelling, rapid prototyping, electronic data and production planning.

Developing Community Capital

Ethical design principles surrounding 6Rs and sustainability, inclusive and empathetic design. Being aware of fair trade and the quality of life of and rights of workers. Also Safety laws and legislation and good manufacturing conditions for employees. Students must also be aware of the importance of sustainability and looking after the environment. Students must learn about recycling,and selecting the right materials that do not damage the environment. Reducing the carbon footprint in extraction, manufacture, use and disposal. Choosing sustainable raw materials = less pollution = less transportation and encouraging students to design and make products for longevity and not a throw away society.