Students learn about the design, production and evaluation of quality designed solutions, processes and the interrelationship of design with other areas of study. They develop an appreciation of the impact of technology on the individual, society and the environment through the study of past, current and emerging technologies. Students also explore ethical and responsible design, preferred futures and innovation through the study of design and the work of designers.

Students undertaking Design and Technology learn to be creative and innovative in the development and communication of solutions. Students learn to identify, analyse and respond to needs through research and experimentation leading to the development of quality design projects. They learn about Work Health and Safety to manage and safely use a range of materials, tools and technologies to aid in the development of design projects. Students apply risk management strategies and safe work practices when selecting and using a range of appropriate technologies to competently develop quality design solutions. Students critically evaluate their own work and the work of others. Individual design projects provide students with opportunities to develop their project management skills.

A design project is the main learning activity of students during a unit of work and culminates in the designed solution and documentation. The design project should be relevant to student needs and interests. It is expected that there will be greater opportunities offered to students in successive design projects to enhance the development of knowledge, understanding and skills.

Design and production folios reinforce and document student learning. Documentation provides the student with a means of recording all aspects of the design process used, evaluating and justifying the reasons for the decisions made. Design and production folios will provide evidence of the design process used in the development and the realisation of a project.

Students develop and manage design projects through:

• identifying needs and opportunities

• researching and investigating existing solutions

• analysing data and information

• generating, justifying and evaluating ideas

• experimenting with tools, materials and techniques

• reflecting on the impact of their design on society and the environment.