A Level Design and Technology Product Design

Course summary

This course will suit students who wish to explore the importance of design and the place it has in this world. The world would not function without product designers. Their role in this world is key to human success. Everything we use in our daily lives from the furniture we sit on, to the cutlery we eat with is designed, then made by people whose job it is to improve our existence. Medical advancements such as 3D printing replacement bones or even organs; the tools surgeons use during operations; technological advancements such as mobile phones; TV’s or personal computers; the homes we live in; Formula 1 racing cars; aeroplanes; the clothes we wear; the latest coolest trainers available to buy … all the work of designers and engineers. How we function and exist in the world around us is down to creatives; innovators and problem solvers… also known as Designers. Is that you? Topics studied on this course: 1) Technical Principles 2) Designing and Making Principles 3) Practical application of Technical Principles, Designing and Making Principles Course content 1 and 2 are assessed through written examinations. Course content 3, the Non-Examination Assessment (NEA) element consists of a digital design portfolio and photographic evidence of final prototype. Students are expected to be independent; self-motivated and driven. Students will self-manage a series of mini practical projects whilst covering the specification content before embarking on the NEA project.