Drumragh Integrated College

Technology & Design

Staff Members: Mrs S Hagan (HOD), Ms V Hall, Ms K O'Neill.  Mr G Morrison (Technology & Design Technician)

Aims:

Our aim within the department is to provide pupils with the understanding to function effectively in the rapidly changing world. Through this subject pupils will have the opportunity to become more aware of how things are made and how they work.

The Technology & Design curriculum gives students the opportunity to study Technology and Engineering, two key elements of STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths which is being promoted both nationally and internationally. 

STEM occupations are growing at 24%, while other occupations are growing at 4%. STEM degree holders have a higher income even in non-STEM careers. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics workers play a key role in the sustained growth and stability of the economy, and are a critical component to helping shape the future. STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy, and enables the next generation of innovators. 

Active involvement in Technology and Design provides opportunity for pupils to think, plan, reason, manufacture and evaluate. We actively develop the pupil’s ability to think and plan in a logical sequence to pursue goals, which can be realistically achieved. The subject brings together and utilises knowledge and skills from other curriculum areas especially in problem solving activities.

Here at Drumragh Integrated College the Technology and Design Department requires pupils to use a variety of materials, components and processes in the design and manufacture of products. It also offers pupils opportunities to experience the personal satisfaction and enjoyment. It instils in pupils the discipline of safe working practice.

The Technology and Design Department offers pupils the opportunity to study the subject at Key Stage 3, GCSE, and A Level.  We also host many events throughout the year which allow students to find out more about various career pathways, third level courses and local employers.

Technology & Design

Key Stage 3

KS3 Technology and Design pupils combine practical and technological skills with creative thinking to design and make products and systems that meet human needs.

Pupils learn to use current technologies to consider the impact of future technological developments. They learn to think creatively, solving problems as individuals and members of a team.

James Dyson the creator the Dyson vacuum cleaner states "Teachers of all disciplines recently voted Technology and Design as the most useful subject you can study" 

Technology and Design encourages pupils to develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills by evaluating design proposals and selecting and using materials that are fit for purpose.

Pupils have opportunities to research and manage information effectively to investigate design issues. They are provided with opportunities to think critically and flexibly, and demonstrate creativity and initiative when developing ideas and following them through.

Key Stage 4

Students who choose to continue their study of Technology and Design can do so here at Drumragh. We offer GCSE Technology and Design to our year 11 and 12 students.

The CCEA GCSE Technology and Design specification encourages students to be innovative and prepared to take design risks.

Students explore the creative, engineering and manufacturing industries, as well as the importance of high quality technology and design.

Our GCSE Technology and Design specification provides students with a core of knowledge in the following key areas before they choose to specialise in one:

  • electronic and microelectronic control systems
  • mechanical and pneumatic control systems
  • product design.

There are two written exams, each worth 25% of the final mark, and a design and manufacturing project worth 50%. We as the student’s teachers mark the design project, and then examiners visit centres to carry out moderation.

This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the Science and Technology Area of Learning and the Cross-Curricular Skill of Using ICT.

This specification is unitised, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment at the end of the first year of study so we opt to sit the first exam in year 11.

The specification has three units:

  • Unit 1: Technology and Design Core Content
  • Unit 2: Optional Areas of Study
  • Unit 3: Design and Manufacturing Project.

Our optional area of study at GCSE is Product Design

Students will have opportunities to:

  • develop practical solutions to consumer needs, wants and opportunities;
  • design and make quality products and/or systems;
  • understand that designing and making reflect and influence cultures and societies;
  • understand that products have an impact on lifestyle;
  • develop their creativity and critical analysis skills;
  • make links between existing solutions, technological knowledge and the principles of good design;
  • explore how aesthetic, technical, economic, environmental, ethical and social dimensions interact to shape designing and making;
  • develop decision-making skills;
  • consider sustainability; and
  • gain insight into related sectors such as manufacturing and engineering.

Key Stage 5

Pearson Edexcel - A Level Design and Technology (Product Design)

Students who complete this course will be able to recognise design needs and develop an understanding of how current global issues, including integrating technology, impacts on today’s world.

At A level students within our department will have the confidence to innovate and produce creative design solutions as they develop their own design brief with a client/end user.

A level Technology and Design is an Edexcel Product Design Course that looks at:

  • Resistant Materials - students will study types of materials in more depth, their properties and their uses, also including advanced materials
  • Processes - injection moulding, casting, sintering and other modern processes involved in product manufacture and the use of ICT in designing and manufacturing
  • Designing - you will be encouraged to be creative/inventive and to develop your skills and talents in graphic/product design
  • Manufacturing – students have an opportunity to manufacture their innovative designs showcasing their accuracy and quality with a wide range of processes.

Extracurricular Clubs / After College Clubs