Design and Technology (Product Design)

Course summary

This course is for students who want to continue studying design and technology after GCSE. It will suit you if you enjoy combining theory with practical work and want to use your maths and science skills. Having an interest in drawing, model making or design history would be an advantage. You might be choosing this A level to aim for a career in product design, though it will give you transferable skills such as creativity, problem solving, analytical thinking and IT skills that can be used in a variety of careers. You'll learn about the properties and potential applications of a range of materials and use equipment and methods to test them. You'll be able to describe the performance characteristics of different materials and the ways their properties can be enhanced (for example laminating wood or tempering metal). You'll understand the processes that can be used to shape and finish 3D products, explore technology used in design including computer aided systems for design and manufacturing, virtual modelling and 3D printing. You'll discover the works of some leading designers and style movements and understand how technological and social change can influence design. You'll use your creativity and imagination to design and make your own prototype products, learn about marketing and branding and how to communicate your design proposals to potential clients. You'll understand the life-cycle of products from design to manufacture, use and disposal. The course will be a combination of classroom-based theory and workshop based practical application. You'll have the opportunity to use industry standard software and many contemporary manufacturing methods including CAD/CAM. There will be visits to design related organisations and events and careers talks from industry professionals.