Selecting an IA Topic

Criteria F

SL and HL Topics: Invention and Innovation

It is important to understand that the focus for SL and HL topics in an internal assessment are slightly different. The additional criteria for HL put the focus on bringing the design idea from an invention to an innovation.

Refer to Topic 5 to be sure you clearly understand the distinction and also review some of the strategies you might use in your design inquiry.

SL

Standard Level

SL projects should focus on invention:

The process of discovering a principle. A technical advance in a particular field often resulting in a novel product.

SL projects can focus on the needs of a specific person and their design context, or on a large market need. You would design, test, and evaluate with that person.

HL

Higher Level

HL projects should focus on innovation:

The business of putting an invention in the marketplace and making it a success.

HL should focus on a problem that has a market beyond a single person. The project can be inspired by a single person and their needs, but it must be a design opportunity that can be explored at a larger scale. You would design, test, evaluate, and modify your design with the goal of commercial production (Criterion E and F)

Factors to consider when choosing a topic

Your design project is personal in nature and should be something that you care about. 

Is the topic feasible? Do I have the skills and knowledge to begin the inquiry?

Can I complete this IA inquiry in the amount of time I'm given?

Is this topic related to an area I am interested?

Is the design opportunity commercially feasible? (not a requirement, but important for HL students)

Projects to consider

You have a range of opportunities to consider for your inquiry:

Projects to avoid

In general it is best to avoid the following types of projects as they cannot fully address all the criteria needed in the Design Inquiry and do not meet with the scope and sequence of DP Design: