Design and Technology Enquiry: Creating Design

The aims for this module are set into the context of the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications and they relate to the SEEC level descriptors for level 6 study. 

This module is designed to run alongside ED606 Realising Design for an extended design and technology project designed to reflect the nature of their studies and experiences in earlier modules.  The module aims to ensure that students have to opportunity to demonstrate the extent of their subject capabilities in designing.

In relation to the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications; the SEEC level descriptors for level 6 study; and the Training and Development Agency’s Professional Standards for Classroom Teachers (TDA, 2007), by the end of the module students should be able to:

1. engage with the design process to develop suitable solutions using innovative techniques;
2. communicate the development process and their design intentions using a range of media;
3. recognise the conflicting demands within product design and justify design decisions and solutions through analysis and evaluation.

Subject knowledge is not specified for this project as such but students will be expected to consolidate and apply some of the skills and concepts learned during their earlier subject study modules, focusing on exploring new technologies in developing creative design solutions. This strategy on non-specification recognises that design and technology is expansive in its remit; students may legitimately call upon a range of knowledge in the development of optimal solutions to identified needs. 

Project Management

Students will present design intentions to the course tutor in graphic form, prior to development and realisation in 3D.

Non-contact time:

• Self directed learning with tutor and technician guidance
• Reading of books and articles, to explore and research areas of skills, knowledge and understanding
• Making appropriate use of available resources inside and outside of the university
• Continuing with the process of designing

Contact time:

• Lectures, demonstrations and critical workshops
• Discussions and student led presentations

Books:

Design Classics  (2006)  Phaidon Design Classics: Pts. 1, 2 & 3,  London: Phaidon Press

Norman, E. et al  (2000)  Advanced Design & Technology (3^rd Ed),  Harlow: Longman

Neal, P., Lambert, B., and Halliwell, J. (2005)  Material ConneXion: The Global resource of new and innovative materials for Architects, Artists and Designers, London: Thames and Hudson

Grundy, J., Hallam, D., Hopkinson, M. and McCarthy, S. (2008)  Design and Technology for A Level, London: Hodder Education

Walker, J. and Robinson, K. (2009) Secondary Specials!: D&T Product Design, London: Oxford University Press

Electronic sources: (all accessed June 2011)

D&T Online - Interactive Design: www.dtonline.org

Design and Technology Association (DATA): www.data.org.uk

Plus:

‘Focus on…’ series of applications held on School of Education intranet

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