Design Technology
‘NO!’ – Design & Technology is not what it was 30 years ago!
The myth that Design & Technology is still the ‘old craft subjects’ under a modern name is slowly being dispelled. As technological changes, modern materials, new manufacturing processes and different consumer needs develop, DT has progressed into a ‘thinking’ subject. It is sometimes taken for granted that the products we use in our daily lives, from furniture to toothbrushes, sunglasses to cutlery, are just there and can be selected when we purchase them. The realisation that we can control and create such products in ways that we want to use them and in ways that we would like them to exist, is a new concept for many. Growing environmental concerns are changing the type and range of everyday products that we use and it is our young designers who need to be given the responsibility, knowledge and opportunities for innovation to help maintain an enjoyable and healthy lifestyle for us all.
Course Outline at Key Stage 3
All students encounter two main blocks of work in Design & Technology in each year, which is shared with the other creative arts subjects of Art and Drama.
From Year 7, the necessary knowledge and understanding required to perform well in the written examinations is meshed meaningfully into the cavernous expanse of innovation, creativity and excitement that the coursework projects can create. Materials and manufacturing methods have become increasingly sophisticated with manual skills blending into more modern usage of Computer Aided Design and Manufacture such as Sublimation design and Laser Cutting technology. Experimentation and ambition usually results not only in very high marks, but also in a very rich experience for all. The ensuing product outcomes, in a range of resistant materials, are often impressive, whilst a few are often quite spectacular. The department believes that the journey is as important as the destination and strong examination grades are often the result of a rich ‘product design’ experience.
Course Outline for GCSE
For further information about the course, please click on the following link:
http://www.wjec.co.uk/index.php?subject=14&level=7
Course outline at A Level
For further information about the course, please click on the following link:
http://www.wjec.co.uk/index.php?subject=14&level=21
Many students who have completed the Design & Technology A Level have gone on to become successful product designers, design consultants, mechanical engineers, architects, jewellery designers, landscape designers, aeronautical engineers and civil engineers to mention a few. Clearly, this is not only due to their success in this subject but is often the result of a carefully considered suite of A Level subjects, one of which has been Design & Technology.
The department benefits from the expertise and continuity of an annual visit from two UK examiners, often including the chief examiner, at either GCSE or A Level to moderate the coursework marks and to provide invaluable guidance and training for the teachers. The examining board regularly uses samples of work from Dubai College as exemplar teaching material for students and teachers across the UK.