Product Design
Course entry requirements
Specification: AQA
Subject entry requirements: GCSE grade 6 or higher in Design and Technology or a Distinction or higher in Engineering
In this A level you will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put the theoretical learning into practice by producing prototypes and mini-projects.
You will understand why these are used in specific applications with particular emphasis on the life-cycle of products including manufacture, use and disposal.
Students will develop an understanding of the methods by which materials and components can be manipulated to manufacture products. Through study and first-hand experience in practical project work, you will also develop knowledge of the health and safety issues relevant to working with materials. Your Design and Make project will provide an opportunity for you to learn about the use of computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacture (CAM), and the use of quality control measures. In addition to this, through study and detailed analysis of a range of products, you will begin to develop knowledge and understanding of the broader issues for the designer, such as environmental sustainability of products and their manufacture, ergonomic and anthropometrics, inclusive design, and consumer safety.
Why is this course useful?
Design and Technology prepares you to participate in tomorrow’s rapidly changing world. You learn to think and intervene creatively to improve quality of life. Here at Finham Park School we teach you the principles of an iterative design process and the skills you need to turn your designs into products, allowing you to give practical solutions to real problems and continually relating tasks back to real-life.
For further information, contact: r.elliott@finhampark.co.uk