Analysis of a program to promote Design Education in rural Queensland Secondary Schools

Abstract

This paper describes and analyses the goDesign program undertaken within 6 Queensland schools in 2009-2010, the impressions and comments of the students, teachers and staff across the schools who participated, and various comments which provide evidence of the development of their design thinking as a result of the program's implementation. It also outlines some of the recommendations arising from the program. The program aimed to test a model for design education and immersion in secondary schools and its potential impact in helping to shape student's dispositions and understanding of design thinking. It also sought to develop recommendations on directions for the greater implementation of design thinking within the secondary school curriculum. It focused on building conceptual understandings of design and practical hands-on knowledge in areas relating to artefact design, interior design and architecture. Key words: Design and Technology education, design thinking, Immersion design projects, design in secondary schools.