Design and Technology

2 units for each of Preliminary and HSC Board developed course

Course Description:

Design and Technology offers students a great opportunity to study the exciting world of design and how it applies to the practical construction of products, systems and environments. Students learn about the factors that influence good design so that they can understand and evaluate the things which have been designed in their real world. This course caters for students who may decide to undertake further studies in Industrial Design, Graphics, Architectural or Product Design at a tertiary level.

The Preliminary course involves the study of both designing and producing. This is explored through areas such as design theory and practice, design processes, environmental and social issues, communication, research, technologies, and the manipulation of materials, tools and techniques. The course involves hands-on practical activities which develop knowledge and skills in designing and producing. The Preliminary course includes the completion of at least two design projects. These projects involve the design, production and evaluation of a product, system or environment and includes evidence of the design process recorded in a design folio. The design folio can take a variety of different forms.

The HSC course applies the knowledge and understanding of designing and producing from the Preliminary course. It involves the development and realisation of a Major Design Project, a case study of an innovation, along with the study of innovation and emerging technologies. The study of the course content is integrated with the development of a Major Design Project, worth 60% of the HSC mark. This project requires students to select and apply appropriate design, production and evaluation skills to a product, system or environment that satisfies an identified need or opportunity. The case study of an innovation requires students to identify the factors underlying the success of the innovation selected, analyse associated ethical issues and discuss its impact on Australian society.

Main Topics Covered:

Preliminary Course

  • Design theory and practice

  • Design and production processes

  • Use of resources in the development and production of design solutions

  • Management techniques and tools to develop design projects

  • Communication – ideas and solutions using a range of techniques

  • Research – development and modification of design ideas

  • Computer based technologies in designing and producing products, systems and environments

HSC Course

  • Design and development of a product, system or an environment

  • Influence of trends in society on design and production

  • Impact of design and innovation on society and the environment

  • Factors that influence innovation and quality design

  • Design and development of a major design project including management strategies

  • Research and communication techniques

  • The setting and evaluation of design priorities and specifications

Note:

There is no prerequisite for Design & Technology. However, students who have shown an interest in Graphics Technology will have an advantage. Students who have a hobby or interest in a specific area may find the opportunity to develop a major project around their interest area. Students design a product, a system and/or an environment, so the range of projects possible is quite large. Please talk to any member of the Industrial Arts staff if you have any queries.

Major Project

In Design and Technology, the Major Design Project is externally assessed and contributes 60% of the final examination HSC mark, with 40% of the final exam mark coming from a 1.5hr written exam. The Major Project includes an 80 page Folio that details the proposal to find an innovative solution to a genuine problem, project management, evidence of creativity, design development, construction of prototypes, models and experimentation before an extensive evaluation of the project is provided. ​ Students are required to manage the whole process of their Major Project from start to finish. Students can start working on their project from Term 4 (Year 11). It is marked externally by NESA representatives.

School Fees: Preliminary Course $100 HSC Course $60(Includes Workbook)