Design Technologies Level 3

Design Technologies combines Hard Materials Technology and Design and Visual Communications to design and make a project. 

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

Students will also learn about technological practice and develop practical workshop-based skills looking at how materials are transformed and the techniques and processes used in design and manufacturing industries.  Students will use computer-based design and manufacturing as part of their course work including designing a product using computer-aided design and setting up and using the laser cutter and or 3d printer to produce it.

The course will involve

• Product design: Students will develop designs for products such as speakers, headphones, 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 (CAM)
• Spatial Design:  exploring space through architectural, interior, exterior, landscape, and the design of public spaces. (Note! The Spatial Design Element is intended for students wanting to study DVC only and study Architecture at a University)

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