Design has been a passion of mine since I was a child. I am thankful that I was fortunate enough to grow up with access to my dad’s tools. During my childhood, I developed a foundation of knowledge and skills while working on go-karts, ramps, and tree houses. I also learned to solve problems in an innovative manner when fixing skateboards and bicycles. This kept me busy for hours on weekends and introduced me to an exciting world of invention, innovation, engineering and entrepreneurship.
It is evident that the current generation has begun to value computer skills more than the skills and techniques involved in using hand tools and power tools. Some children never learn basic skills such as using a screwdriver or hammering nails. I believe that Design and Technology is such an important subject as it combines the essential skills from my father’s generation with the essential skills necessary to be successful in using modern technology. This combination allows students to develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving techniques, organization and planning skills, as well as care and attention to detail.
I feel it is important to allow students the freedom to explore a variety of methods in solving a problem, and to allow them to make mistakes. A very important component of the Design Cycle is to evaluate and reflect on the process involved in designing. Making mistakes is inevitable and allows students to self-reflect, learn from their mistakes, and encourages creativity and critical thinking.
On this site you will find units which I have designed and developed. These units are linked to the International Baccalaureate’s Areas of Interaction: Environments, Communities and Service, Health and Social Education, and Human Ingenuity. They allow students to focus on issues of global importance and to develop as international-minded learners.
At one of my previous schools, I was provided with an excellent opportunity to establish a Design and Technology curriculum. This has been a rewarding experience and has been a positive challenge in my continuing professional development. This also included collecting, ordering, building and developing the resources and space necessary for a Design and Technology class to be successful. On this site, you will have the chance to explore how I have used my own design skills to set-up a classroom that reflects the IB Standards and Practices, as well as the Learner Profile.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or suggestions. Enjoy Exploring!
It is evident that the current generation has begun to value computer skills more than the skills and techniques involved in using hand tools and power tools. Some children never learn basic skills such as using a screwdriver or hammering nails. I believe that Design and Technology is such an important subject as it combines the essential skills from my father’s generation with the essential skills necessary to be successful in using modern technology. This combination allows students to develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving techniques, organization and planning skills, as well as care and attention to detail.
I feel it is important to allow students the freedom to explore a variety of methods in solving a problem, and to allow them to make mistakes. A very important component of the Design Cycle is to evaluate and reflect on the process involved in designing. Making mistakes is inevitable and allows students to self-reflect, learn from their mistakes, and encourages creativity and critical thinking.
On this site you will find units which I have designed and developed. These units are linked to the International Baccalaureate’s Areas of Interaction: Environments, Communities and Service, Health and Social Education, and Human Ingenuity. They allow students to focus on issues of global importance and to develop as international-minded learners.
At one of my previous schools, I was provided with an excellent opportunity to establish a Design and Technology curriculum. This has been a rewarding experience and has been a positive challenge in my continuing professional development. This also included collecting, ordering, building and developing the resources and space necessary for a Design and Technology class to be successful. On this site, you will have the chance to explore how I have used my own design skills to set-up a classroom that reflects the IB Standards and Practices, as well as the Learner Profile.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or suggestions. Enjoy Exploring!