Design and Technology (2U)
Board Developed Course (240 hours)
Available in Years 11 and 12
The study of Design and Technology Stage 6 develops conceptual understanding and enables students to creatively apply these to specific technological endeavours through design projects. It also seeks to develop students’ appreciation of the historical and cultural influences on design and the interrelationships of design, technology, society and the environment.
Design and Technology has a unique focus on creativity, innovation and the successful implementation of innovative ideas. Students will investigate the importance of evaluation, the role of computer-based technologies, management, communication and collaborative design, as well as exploring current and emerging technologies. Through the completion of quality design projects, students are provided with the opportunity to develop specific production and manufacturing skills.
Design and Technology is inclusive of the needs, interests and aspirations of all students. It provides opportunities for students to develop design projects in areas of individual interest, to discuss equity issues related to design, production and manufacturing in the Australian society and to consider careers in the fields of design and manufacturing.
Course Structure
Preliminary Course Structure (120 indicative hours)
The Preliminary course is 120 indicative hours and will involve a minimum of two design projects. The projects will develop skills and knowledge to be further developed in the HSC course. Each project will place emphasis on the development of different skills and knowledge in designing and producing.
Design projects must involve the design, production and evaluation of a product, system or environment that includes evidence of design processes recorded in a design folio, which may be in a variety of different forms. Students should be encouraged to communicate their design ideas using a range of appropriate media.
HSC Course Structure (120 indicative hours)
The HSC course is 120 indicative hours and includes the development and realization of the Major Design Project, a case study of an innovation and other teaching and learning activities. The comprehensive study of design and the processes of designing and producing that were studied in the preliminary course are synthesized and applied.
Core units include:
1. Innovation and Emerging Technologies
2. Designing and Producing:
Project Proposal and Project Management
Project Development and Realisation
Project Evaluation
The Major Design Project
The development of a Major Design Project will be the main focus in the HSC Design and Technology course. This project is worth 60% of the HSC mark while the remaining 40% is a written external exam. Students must also document the progressive development of the Major Design Project in a comprehensive Design Folio. This component of the course is compulsory and must be certified by both the classroom teacher and the Head of School. Students and parents are to be reminded that the Project and the Design Folio is the Major Design Project which is a combined task assessed by external HSC markers.
Prerequisites
Every student is capable of doing Design and Technology for the HSC. Although highly recommended, it is not essential to have completed an elective course in Years 9 – 10. With the right work ethic in mind, all students can develop the ability to use their own concepts to design, develop and produce innovative products, systems, or environments for specific needs or wants that have been identified.
Vocational Opportunities
Many courses are available in Design (Graphics, Industrial, Interior etc) in the university sector and the TAFE sector as well as private institutions. These courses are well suited to students who have studied Design and Technology in Stage 6.