NCEA Level 3 Design & Visual Communication

Aims

Level 3 Design and Visual Communication builds on the skills and concepts introduced in Levels 1 &2. The course gives students a foundation of design skills that are applicable to a multitude of tertiary design courses in the fields of architecture, industrial, landscape and graphic design.

Course Content

Students are challenged to undertake an iterative design process. This begins by investigating natural forms through drawing, model-making, photography and research of established design concepts. Students then reinterpret and embed their findings into either a or product or spatial design outcome of their choosing. Students then present their design to an audience in an exhibition context. This challenges students to use a range of graphic design techniques to communicate relevant features of their designs.

Assessment

Students produce a portfolio that is assessed against specific internal achievement standards throughout the year. Selected work is then sent for assessment of the external and scholarship.

Qualification gained

NCEA Level 3 Technology (Design and Visual Communication) - full course completion 22 credits.

This subject has links with

Digital Technologies, Visual Arts, Science, Mathematics, Social Sciences

Prior knowledge required

Recommended study of DVC at Year 12, NCEA L2; an interest in design and problem solving; a creative mind; ability to work independently. Personal qualities: curiosity, perseverance, organisational and communication skills.

Next Steps

This course supports many tertiary courses in specific fields such as architecture, product design, graphic design, digital media design and engineering. DVC gives students a foundation of skills to be successful in both further education and the workplace.