Explore the IB Design Technology Syllabus
Understand the IB Design Technology syllabus through four main areas: People, Process, Product, and Production. Explore Design in Theory, Design in Practice, and Design in Context to see what you need to learn at Standard Level and Higher Level.
Explore the Syllabus
Start with an area of the course and explore the knowledge, skills, and applications covered in each part of the syllabus.
Design in Theory
Here, you build the knowledge behind design decisions. You’ll learn how ergonomics helps us understand the relationship between people and products, and how these ideas influence the way products are designed for users.
Learn More →Design in Practice
Here, you apply what you know about users to real design decisions. You’ll learn how user-centred design helps you develop solutions around the needs and characteristics of the people who will use them.
Learn More →Design in Context
Here, you look at the wider responsibilities of designing for people. You’ll explore the responsibility of the designer, inclusive design, and at HL, how design can go beyond basic usability.
Learn More →Design in Theory
Here, you build the knowledge behind the design process. You’ll learn about user-centred research methods and prototyping techniques used to investigate problems and explore possible design solutions.
Learn More →Design in Practice
Here, you work through the design process itself. You’ll learn how ideas are developed, modelled, prototyped, tested, and refined as you move towards a design solution.
Learn More →Design in Context
Here, you consider the wider impact of the design process. You’ll explore sustainability and the circular economy, and learn how these ideas can influence decisions throughout design and development.
Learn More →Design in Theory
Here, you build the knowledge behind the products you design. You’ll learn about material classification and properties, along with the basic principles of structural, mechanical, and electronic systems. At HL, you’ll also study manufacturing techniques.
Learn More →Design in Practice
Here, you apply your product knowledge to design decisions. You’ll learn how to select materials and, at HL, apply and select structural, mechanical, and electronic systems for particular design situations.
Learn More →Design in Context
Here, you look at the product as a complete design solution. You’ll learn how products can be analysed and evaluated, and at HL, how life-cycle analysis can help you understand their wider impacts.
Learn More →Design in Theory
Here, you build your understanding of how products are made. At HL, you’ll study manufacturing techniques and learn how different methods are used to turn materials and design ideas into physical products.
Learn More →Design in Practice
Here, you apply your understanding of production systems. At HL, you’ll learn how different production systems work and how they affect the way products are manufactured.
Learn More →Design in Context
Here, you consider how products should be designed for manufacture. At HL, you’ll explore design for manufacture strategies and how manufacturing needs can influence design decisions.
Learn More →Need Help With IB Design Technology?
Understanding the syllabus is the first step. If you need help with difficult concepts, coursework, or exam preparation, one-to-one tutoring can give you focused support.
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