IB Diploma in Design and Technology

Course summary

Design is a process that links innovation and creativity, providing a structured process based on well-established design principles to resolve real-life problems. Design involves generating ideas, exploring the possibilities and constraints to find solutions. Design is human-centred and focuses on the needs wants and limitations of the end user. Students will develop an understanding of design through theory and practical work. Students will have the opportunity to undertake a range of practical projects to demonstrate their understanding and deepen their knowledge. Industrial visits, as well as guest speakers will allow students to gain real insight into how their subjects relates to the word of work. This qualification aims to prepare students for the workplace by incorporating skills such as effective researching, creating and designing, manufacturing, analysing, and evaluating. This shows potential employers that students are well-rounded and a focus on industrial visits help to give them experiences to talk about in potential interviews. ALL students study the following topics on the Higher Level IB DT course Year 12 1. Human factors and ergonomics 2. User-centred design (UCD) 3. Modelling 4. Innovation and design 5. Classic Design Year 13 1. Sustainability User-centred design (UCD) 2. Resource management 3. Raw materials to final product 4. Innovation and markets 5. Commercial production