Software has become more intuitive and approachable there appears never to be an age when they are too young to learn.'Īccording to the national curriculum: 'ICT helps pupils learn in design and technology by stimulating their work, allowing them to accurately manufacture what they have designed, and helping them to manufacture real and quality products with a professional finish.' So what works best? The principal design software used at Telford includes ProDesktop, originally issued as part of the Cad (computer-aided design) in Schools initiative.
Students tend to be engaged by the use of dynamic or video materials they can control. 'Each generation of software enhances the student's capabilities and the range of possibilities. 'Design and technology has never been better served with software and IT resources than now,' says Mark Hudson, deputy head and director of technology at Thomas Telford school in Telford, Shropshire.
After all, the industries that comprise the subject - electronics and textiles, graphic design and, by extension, architecture - were the ones that embraced the computer early.
Of all the subjects taught in schools, D&T dovetails with the development of ICT closest of all. Computers and design and technology (D&T) lessons go together like toast and marmalade.
