The Design Technology course is taught at Higher and Standard level, and will suit students who are highly motivated and can work in a more independent way. The curriculum differs from the other group 4 models as this subject contains a Design Project, which is unique to Design Technology.

The IB Diploma Programme Design Technology course incorporates skills, knowledge and design principals in a problem solving context, whilst at the same time maximising the use of local and readily available resources. This course assumes no previous experience in either designing or design technology. The course aids students to adapt to new skills and relevant techniques to identify the important elements and crucially to create a valuable solution.

Theory (Core):

Designers and the design cycle
Innovation
Materials
Manufacturing processes and techniques
Product design
Clean technology and green design

The design cycle is at the core of the course. All students will use this process in practical investigatory work as well as in their theory.

Internal Assessment:

• A group 4 project
• A mixture of short- and/ or long term investigations
• The design project ~ worth 36% of final assessment

The project is part of all aspects of this course and its purpose it to ensure that students gain a greater understanding of the subject by using both practical and design skills; the project will be integrated into theories learnt.

Each candidate must compile a log book which should be a record of how the design project developed and give an insight into the candidate’s thoughts and actions throughout the development period. The log book which is not formally assessed should include: design ideas/sketches/evaluations/notes on meetings and information found/ details of decisions taken during the project

Design Technology interfaces well between the Sciences and the Arts; the knowledge base would link to Science and the creative flair to the Arts.