Students study design processes, design theory and factors in relation to design projects.
Preliminary course
Preliminary course students study designing and producing, which includes the completion of at least two design projects. Designing and producing includes the study of design theory, design processes, creativity, collaborative design, research, management, using resources, communication, manufacturing and production, computer-based technologies, safety, evaluation, environmental issues, analysis, marketing and manipulation of materials, and tools and techniques.
HSC course
HSC course students undertake the study of innovative and emerging technologies, through the development of an innovation case study. They also study design and production in the context of their Major Design Project and folio. The project folio includes project proposal and management, project development and realisation, and project evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the HSC folio?
Should I do two major work subjects?
What is the difference between Design and Technology and Industrial Technology Timber?
Can I do Design and Technology if I didn’t do it in Years 9 & 10?
How big is the HSC folio?
The Design and Technology HSC folio limit is 80 A4 pages. A sample band 6 folio is provided for reference. While this seems quite large at first glance, please realise that it is a whole years’ worth of work. Breaking it down into small achievable chunks is the key to success. 40 weeks of the year, 80 pages equals 2 pages a week. A very achievable task especially given that many pages consist of sketches, photographs and CAD drawings.
Should I do two major work subjects?
I guess this comes down to the student. Major works are all due within a four week period of each other, coinciding with the Trial HSC examinations. This can place considerable stress on students, and can impact their ability to study for the Trial Examinations as they endeavor to finish off two major works. Consistent application throughout the year is the most important relieving factor. Do you tend to leaving things to the last minute? Probably best to stick to one major work. Another option - you could do two and drop one of them at the end of Year 11.
What is the difference between Design and Technology and Industrial Technology Timber?
Design and Technology focuses on the Design Process itself, and is not limited to a particular technology or medium. The focus is on identifying a need or problem, and then the application of the design process to solve that need or problem. Projects in Design and Technology are therefor wide ranging in scope, and thus the choice of materials, tools and technologies used is determined by the nature of the project. Think of it as more like product design.
Industrial Technology looks at the design process in the context of one particular Technology or medium. In this instance it is Timber. Think of it as learning the craft of furniture design and cabinetmaking – heavily skill based.
Can I do Design and Technology if I didn’t do it in Years 9 & 10?
Yes. There is no prerequisite for Design and Technology. However, students who pick the subject up in Year 11 are at a great disadvantage. They have missed much of the foundational knowledge and skills that underpin quality practice and are key to doing well in Year 11 and 12. It is possible, but it does require students to be determined and driven as they catch up on two years of missed learning.
If you have further questions, please contact:
TAS Coordinator - Mr Nick Williams