Design and Technology / Food Technology
Aims of the Subject
Design and Technology prepares pupils to participate in tomorrow's rapidly changing technologies. They learn to think and intervene creatively to improve quality of life. The subject calls for pupils to become autonomous and creative problem solvers, both as individuals and members of a team. They must look for needs, wants and opportunities, and respond to them by developing a range of ideas and making products, systems and solutions. They combine practical skills with an understanding of aesthetics, social and environmental issues, function and industrial practices. As they do so, they reflect on and evaluate present and past design and technology, its uses and effects.
Assessment Methods
Continuous assessment takes place throughout the year and informs progress and planning. At the end of the topic, the teachers and children assess the work produced against the design criteria identified at the outset. There is no structured exam for this subject.
Teaching Tecniques
Design and Technology is a practical subject taught in the Workshop, ICT and Design Suite or Food Technology room. Teaching involves:
- practical demonstrations and use of technical equipment
- class discussions, brainstorming, research
- working individually and in small groups
- using case studies, surveys, guest speakers
- self evaluation.
Use of ICT
The use of computers is embedded across the subject, whether it be for design, manufacture of products, research, display or assessment purposes.