Design and Technology

Gandhi Ji says if someone does not know how a train functions he should not travel in that……. Design & Communication and Design and Technology (DC&DT)were introduced in Mauritius in the years 1990’s with the first cohort of School certificate in the year 1992.Design and Communication has taken over Geometrical and Mechanical Drawing(G.M.D), whereas, Design and Technology has taken over and at the same time bring together Wood work, Metal work and G.M.D. Design and communication, can also be referred as Graphics design consist mainly of drawing, namely geometrical and mechanical drawing, free hand sketching, pictorial projections (3D) etc, and designing of packaging, logos, symbols and signs, leaflet and pamphlets, etc. Design and Technology also referred as Resistant materials is the study of materials like metals, woods, plastics and others, their properties, uses and finishes, ergonomics and anthropometrics. Acquiring this knowledge is not only theoretical, as through their coursework students should be able to show they are able to apply these in their realisation. Unlike other subjects , Design & Communication and Design and Technology (DC/DT) are subjects were tools like set-squares, Tee -Squares, Protractors, compasses, pencils(different sizes 2H,3H...HB,...B5 ..., coloured , etc) Plain papers(A3 size, Isometric , Squared Grid etc) are the basic needed for students to be able to work. A well equipped workshop also is needed so as students are able to carry out the realisation of their coursework. Design & Communication and Design& Technology is not a time consuming subject It is false to say that DC and DT is time consuming subject. For School certificate titles for their coursework are given to students at the end of January and for Higher School Certificate students have already chosen their problem by the end of February in lower six and therefore, they do have ample time to work on. Many students wait the end to start or proceed with the work and hence, they are in a hurry in completing the task. At this specific point of time both parents and students complain that the subject is time consuming. No dear, you have not planned your work and followed instructions given by teachers properly. The Design & Communication and Design Technology Department We are three in the department, with Mr S.Coonjobeeharry the Head of Department, Mr. V. Dhunookdharee and Mr. H. Bungshee. We are a young but dynamic, always ready to help students. There are two specialised classes one equipped with computer with AutoCAD software, scanner and A3 size printer. School Certificate performance Year 2006 100% Year 2007 100% Aims of Design & Technology develop and sustain their own innovation, creativity and design and technology capability, to recognise constraints and to produce high quality products; • develop awareness of the significance of design and technology upon society; • apply essential knowledge, understanding and skills of design production processes to a range of technological activities and develop an understanding of industrial practices; • use information and communications technology (ICT), as appropriate, to enhance their design and technological capability; • develop critical evaluation skills in technical, aesthetic, economic, environmental, social and cultural contexts; • develop as discerning consumers able to make informed choices; • develop positive attitudes of co-operation and citizenship and work collaboratively. Values can be taught in DC and DT Prospect for students doing Design & Technology and Deign & Communication Educator Architecture Engineers- Civil, Mechanical Draughtsman Designers – Cars, Graphics Designers, Fashion Designers, Aero designs Market Researchers