DESIGN TECHNOLOGY
Design Technology can be studied at Higher or Standard Level at GIS.
Nature of the Subject
To design can be defined as "to conceive a mental plan for something". Design consists of gathering information about the present state of the world around us, processing that information and planning for some kind of intervention either by modifying what is already there or introducing something new. The designer is not just interested in the material environment but also the political, social and economic considerations which affect people's priorities.
The Intent of the Course
IB Diploma Programme Design Technology is based on a model of learning which incorporates knowledge, skills and design principles in problem solving contexts, while at the same time maximizing the use of local and readily available resources. It assumes no previous experience in either design technology or designing. The intent is not solely the acquisition of knowledge about design and technology, which may change or become outdated, but it is about learning how to adapt to new experiences and approach problems with the appropriate skills and the relevant techniques to identify the important elements and, crucially, to develop the optimum solutions. The design cycle is at the core of the course and it is expected that students will use this process in the practical investigative work as well as in the theory. Each element in the cycle represents an aspect of design technology which, when viewed together, constitutes a holistic approach. Any given element is therefore only to be seen in the context of the whole process.
Overview of Course Structure
Core Material:
The core material provides information about and experience of designing and the role of the designers. At the same time it provides details about materials and processes to allow students to get a feel for the work of designers through investigative and project work.
Additional Higher Level and Options Material:
The additional higher level (AHL) material and the options material provides explanations and answers to the "why?" questions arising from the core material (some chemistry and applied physics). It also extends the content into appropriate technologies, and the manufacture and evaluation of final products.
Assessment
The students are externally assessed through examinations at the end of the course and through the completion of internally assessed mini-projects and investigations including a Group 4 project and the Major Design Project.