IBDP Design & Technology
Group 4 | Design & Technology
"Design, and the resultant development of new technologies, has given rise to profound changes in society: transforming how we access and process information; how we adapt our environment; how we communicate with others; how we are able to solve problems; how we work and live." (Nature of Design Technology, Design technology guide First assessment 2020)
What will I learn?
The Diploma Programme Design Technology course develops internationally-minded people whose enhanced understanding of design and the technological world facilitates a shared guardianship of the planet. Inquiry and problem-solving are at the heart of the subject. DP design technology uses the design cycle to provide a methodology to structure the inquiry and analysis of problems and the development, testing and evaluation of the solution. A solution can be defined as a model, prototype, product or system that students have developed independently. DP design technology achieves a high level of design literacy by enabling students to develop critical-thinking and design skills, which they apply in a practical context. While designing may take various forms, it will involve the selective application of knowledge within an ethical framework.
Assessment
| Component | Time | %HL | %SL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual Design Project | 40 | 40 | |
| Paper 1 - Multiple Choice | 1 hr | 20 | 30 |
| Paper 2 - Short Answer & Extended Response | 1.5 hrs | 20 | 30 |
| Paper 3 - Structured Questions (HL only) | 1.5 hrs | 20 | 0 |
Why should I consider this course?
- Inquiry and problem-solving are at the heart of the subject
- You will analyse real-world problems, develop feasible and innovative solutions, and test and evaluate your ideas
- Your solutions can be models, prototypes, products or systems that you have developed independently
- You will achieve design literacy, developing critical-thinking and design skills, in a practical way
- When designing, you will think and work within an ethical framework
What Skills does this course provide?
- Designing develops your imagination and creativity
- It develops empathy, compassion and respect to make a positive difference to the lives of others and the environment
- An enhanced understanding of design and the technological world
- Analysis, design development, synthesis and evaluation skills
What Pathway Options does this course provide?
- Anyone who may wish to do further study in architecture, engineering, product or industrial design
- People who want to study how design affects society and the environment
- People who wish to pursue careers in creative fields