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Design Technology integrates independent thinking and creativity with the practical and technical skills needed to shape useful and aesthetic solutions. By understanding the relationship between objects, technology and the needs of people, we can appreciate how design can impact human behaviour and change the way we live.
Through hands-on activities, students will learn how to design, prototype and test solutions, drawing on a range of technologies and approaches.
Course Aims
Course Aims
Develop an appreciation of the effect design can have on people, economies and the environment
Provide opportunities for practical activities through a creative and iterative approach to solving design problems
Enable learners to communicate ideas through graphical, physical and digital modelling to gather feedback and to inform further development
Explore a human-centred approach to design that requires empathy and understanding of user needs
Promote a culture of showcasing and celebrating outcomes
Course Outline
Course Outline
Skills Developed
Skills Developed
Graphical / Digital / Physical Modelling - work by Grade 9 Students, 2022-24
Graphical / Digital and Physical Modelling
"Analogue" drawing + Digital Drawing
Computer Aided Design / Manufacture
Workshop processes
Creative thinking
Problem solving
Collaborative approached to problem solving
Self and project management
Analysis, synthesis and realisation
Understanding of a wide range of materials and their impacts
Iterative approaches
Seeking and using constructive feedback
Empathy
Curating and presenting design work
Making bioplastics - exploring materials in a circular economy
Assessment
Assessment
Design work
Design exhibition and showcases
Case Studies in timed assessments
Quizzes
Student curated exhibition. June, 2023
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Am I expected to be good at drawing?
No. While the course requires you to sketch, you will complete several briefs designed to develop your skills.
There are many ways to communicate design ideas and drawing is only one of them. The use of ipads is also common now.
Will I have to use Computer Aided Design?
Yes! CAD (Fusion 360) is used for virtual modelling and rapid prototyping (3D printing). We will will start with the basics.
There is no expectation that you have any CAD experience. The course is pitched to beginners. More experienced users will be able to further hone their skills.
Is there an opportunity for me to choose my own projects and work on projects I am interested in?
Yes! At the start of G9 and G10, you will be taught the basics. After that, the design briefs are very open and allow students to work on designing solutions in any material, following a process of their choice.
Will G10 Design Technology help me with Diploma IB?
Diploma Programme Design Technology (G11 and 12) is an ab-initio course, requiring no prior subject experience. Students who have completed Grades 9 and 10 Design will find that many of their developed skills and core concepts provide a foundation for more in-depth exploration at Diploma level.
What units of work will I study?
Human Factors (anthropometrics and ergonomics)
Enhancing performance, safety and aesthetics
Digital, Physical and Graphical modelling
User centred Design
Iconic designs
Biomaterials
What types of design outputs will I create and what materials will I use to bring my ideas to life?
Most design briefs allow you to work with any material that best addresses the design need. You'll have access to a variety of modelling materials, including digital tools for 3D printing and prototyping.
Some solutions may be best developed using mixed materials like wood, metal, or plastics, while others may involve working with electronics or textiles.
Students will have the opportunity to experiment with a diverse range of materials, considering their desired properties, performance, and functionality.
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