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 learners 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

At Level 3 learners are expected to work autonomously to develop their own ideas with guidance from their teacher. In this they undertake an iterative design process beginning with a starting experience which is used to develop ideas through sketching, graphic drawing, model-making and photography. Learners then reinterpret emergent themes and ideas from their starting experiences, to develop either a product or spatial design concepts. In doing this they explore through visual communication relevant opportunities and constraints associated with their ideas. Once learners arrive at a resolved outcome they showcase it in an exhibition for the public, considering how to best communicate their ideas to their audience. 

Assessment

Learners 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 16  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

Tertiary study in a wide range of fields. DVC gives students a foundation of skills to be successful in both further education and the workplace.