What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?

The only requirement to start the course is that you have a proven, genuine interest in the subject and a desire to learn. However, you also need to be realistic in your expectations: students who have achieved a grade B or higher at GCSE will be suited to Higher Level courses. Students who have a lower grade or have not studied a Technology related course will find it more challenging, so would be wise to consider the Standard Level option.

However, any student with a proven interest and capability in designing and making is welcome on the Diploma programme. This could be from a GCSE or equivalent course that you have studied, a portfolio of work that you bring with you or a recommendation from your teacher. If you are in any doubt, seek advice from a member of the Design Technology Department.

What will I learn on this course?

The central core of the Design Technology course is the design process with the emphasis on problem solving. The course provides you with a broad understanding of issues relating to designing and manufacturing using modern materials and processes. You also have to learn about the increasing role of the designer’s responsibility in terms of ethics and the environment. In many parts of the course, you will learn about Design Technology by designing and making products so the learning is practical and fun.

Course structure: Standard Level: 150 hours. Higher Level: 240 hours.

Core topics:

Option C:

The option currently being offered is CAD/CAM. The content of this course is summarised below:

Practical Work:

In the first year you will undertake a range of investigations and project work set by the teacher and conducted throughout the course. This is your assessed coursework for Year 12.

In Year 13 you will undertake a major project of your own choice which incorporates the full design and make process. This is also assessed coursework.

Group 4 Project:

This is a 10 hour, collaborative activity where you will work with others from different Group 4 subjects on a scientific or technological topic. The Project allows you to appreciate the environmental, social and ethical implications of science and technology. The emphasis is on interdisciplinary cooperation and the processes involved in scientific investigation, rather than the products of such investigation.

What kind of student is this course suitable for?

It has already been stated that you need to have a genuine interest in the subject and a desire to learn. Additionally, you need to have an enquiring mind, be interested in how and why things work, and enjoy undertaking practical investigations and activities. In short, if you like learning by doing and using your creative potential, this could be the course for you.

How will my work be assessed?

The course is assessed through three examination papers, a range of internally set practical investigations and a major project:

Paper 1: (20%)

• Standard level: 45 minutes. 30 multiple choice questions on the CORE THEORY
• Higher level: 1 hour. 40 multiple choice questions on the CORE THEORY plus ADDITIONAL HIGHER LEVEL TOPICS

Paper 2: (24%)

• Standard level: 1 hour. Section A: Data based question plus several short answer questions – all compulsory based on CORE THEORY
• Section B: One extended question from a choice of three based on the CORE THEORY

Paper 3: (20%)

Investigations: (coursework) (18%)

Major project: (18%)

Group 4 Project:

What skills can I develop by taking this course?

The Design Technology course encourages you to use this subject to gain knowledge and skills of design principles used ‘to conceive a plan’ for solving problems. Design consists of gaining information about the world around us, processing that information and using it to form a strategy to alter or improve a situation. IB Design Technology also encourages you to study social issues, cultures, values, emphasising good design judgement and responsibility in producing the best solution. These are essential analytical, problem-solving skills in all walks of life. You will also study scientific principles in the laws, properties and development of new products, production techniques and systems, in order to understand scientific and technological advances in society and its interaction with the environment. The design cycle is at the core of this programme and your ability to design will be developed throughout the course.

What could I go on to do at the end of this course?

The qualification provides a foundation for entry into a broad range of university courses including:

Engineering, Architecture, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Medical Technology, Manufacturing, Robotics, Control Systems, Craft, Fashion design, Jewellery, Furniture and Interior design, Landscaping, Environmental design, Sports Science and Technology, Education, Aeronautics, Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Manufacture, Management, … the list is almost endless!

If you have a specific career or course in mind, you can build up your portfolio and project work to support your application. The flexible nature of the course allows for this. Alternatively, if you do not decide to pursue a design-related course at tertiary level, you will have had an excellent grounding in a wide range of important transferable skills for life and work in the 21st century.

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