Kaiapoi High School
Level 1 Product Design
Course Description
Head of Faculty/Teacher in Charge: Mr H. Johnston.
Product Design combines creative design with project-based learning to equip students for the evolving challenges of technology. This academic course focuses on conceptual and theoretical aspects of design, with less emphasis on practical experience compared to L1TCWD and L1TCMT.
Students will complete individual projects to address real-world challenges chosen by their clients or end users. They will learn to bring their ideas to life through the design process, innovation, and critical thinking. Product designers are essential in planning and developing items for use in homes, businesses, and industry.
This course can not be done in combination with Wearable Art because both courses use the same Achievement Standards.
Level 2 Product Design will be offered in 2026.
Course Overview
What is taught in courses varies from year to year. This course could include:
In this course, students will tackle real-world challenges through individual projects of their own choosing. The course is designed to ignite creativity and foster innovation by immersing students in the full spectrum of the design process. Through hands-on experience, students will learn to transform their ideas into tangible realities.
Students will:
Identify Real-World Challenges: Students will start by selecting a problem or challenge that resonates with them on a personal level. This could range from environmental issues to social problems, or even everyday inconveniences that need creative solutions.
Conceptual Development: Once an issue is identified, students will brainstorm and develop a range of conceptual solutions. This stage emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and the ability to envision multiple approaches to solving a problem.
Design and Innovation: Students will delve into the principles of design thinking, learning how to iterate on their ideas and refine them through feedback and testing. This process will teach them to approach problems systematically and innovatively.
Hands-On Skills Development: Utilizing a makerspace approach, students will gain practical skills in working with various materials and technologies. They will have access to state-of-the-art equipment such as laser cutters, 3D printers, and workshops for wood, metal, and soft materials. This hands-on experience is crucial for bringing their designs to life.
Multi-Material Modeling: Students will enhance their modeling skills by working with different materials. This will involve creating prototypes and models using wood, metal, plastics, and textiles, providing a comprehensive understanding of material properties and fabrication techniques.
Recommended Prior Learning
This course has no prerequisites; open entry for all.
Pathway
Students will develop projects using a range of skills, tools, and technologies. This course combines Technologies disciplines and prepares students for an increasingly wide range of tertiary or employment pathways.
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is eligible for subject endorsement.
External
NZQA Info
Materials and Processing Technology 1.1 - Develop a Materials and Processing Technology outcome in an authentic context
NZQA Info
Materials and Processing Technology 1.2 - Experiment with different materials to develop a Materials and Processing Technology outcome
NZQA Info
Materials and Processing Technology 1.4 - Demonstrate understanding of techniques selected for a feasible Materials and Processing Technology outcome
Click on a career pathway tag to explore more....
Software Developer, Architect, Architectural Technician, Collision Repair Technician, Boat Builder, Naval Architect, Fabrication Engineer, Building Contractor, Building and Construction Labourer, Cabinet Maker, Surveyor, Carpenter, Urban/Regional Planner, Civil Engineer, Civil Engineering Technician/Draughtsperson, Interior Designer, Industrial Designer, Conservator, Systems Administrator, Engineering Machinist, Information Technology Architect, Furniture Finisher, Landscape Architect, Joiner, Plastics Technician, Project Manager, Roofer, User Experience Designer, Network Administrator,
Disclaimer
Please note that courses will go ahead only if student numbers, staffing, and timetabling allow it. Where a subject is oversubscribed, and there are insufficient numbers or resources to create an extra class, a ballot system may be applied.
Costs
The Board of Trustees has again asked to opt into the Ministry of Education donation scheme. Doing so resulted in the ability to waive student fee donations. Kaiapoi High School aims to deliver quality educational courses over and above those that which is funded by the Ministry. It is likely the School will opt into the donation scheme for 2025, however parental contribution for the costs of trips and activities where participation is optional, and/or components not covered by the Government grant, may be requested. We appreciate the financial support our families make to the School.
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