Design Technologies Level 2

Design Technologies combines Hard Materials Technology and Design and Visual Communications. Using skills from both subjects students identify an issue, then design and manufacture a product to solve it.  Students have the option of studying Materials Technology standards or Design and Visual Communications or a mixture of both.

In Design Technologies you will study how products are designed for specific situations. You will develop an understanding of graphics practice using design and visual communication techniques exploring and presenting design ideas across a range of different contexts. 

You will also learn about technological practice and develop practical workshop-based skills looking at how materials are transformed and the techniques and processes including computer-aided design and manufacturing used in design and manufacturing industries.

The course will involve

• Product design: Students research an influential designer’s style and apply these styles to the development of a product. such as iPod speakers, headphones, torches, furniture, lighting, and storage solutions.
• Idea Presentation: the ability to find the most appropriate method of showcasing ideas to a specific audience – this may be using a website, presentation boards, posters, models, and the use of computer-aided design (CAD).
• Technological Practice: including research, concept generation, and evaluation of practice.
• Workshop practices: including laser cutter/CNC/Digital design and manufacturing
• Spatial Design:  exploring space through architecture, interior, exterior, landscape, and the design of public spaces. (Note! This is intended for students wanting to study DVC only)

It is possible for students to study only the DVC components of the course. This would suit students wanting to study architecture at university.