One of the National Curriculum aims for design and technology is to ensure that all pupils develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world. Digital skills such as computer aided design (CAD) is mentioned specifically in the KS2 curriculum as is applying understanding from computing to program, monitor and control their products. These skills are often new to teachers, but including the development of digital skills is an important part of children’s learning in D&T.
The NC programmes of study for computing says that Computing has deep links with design and technology as well as the other STEM subjects. In D&T, children may use technology and develop skills and knowledge learnt in computing and relearn and apply them to D&T in product design, or to practise digital skills like programming within a context where outputs are easy to see and modify. Using technology and digital skills to design, make and modify products can benefit both subjects as they reinforce learning, but also help to show the application of digital skills in the wider world.
Controlling systems can use different devices, such as Crumble Controllers, which may be loaned as class sets through the Computing Hubs and used on class projects. If you’ve not come across Crumble, it is an easy-to-use programmable controller, which can be integrated into D&T projects, attaching motors, lights, buzzers so once programmed, products can move, light up and make sounds, allowing children to add an element of control to their designs.
This kind of project may sound quite daunting for a teacher who hasn’t had a chance to learn these skills themselves. If you are a teacher wanting to do this, but need time to explore and learn about integrating Crumble into your lessons, then we have options to help you achieve this and start your school on its digital journey in D&T.
Firstly, there are lots of great lots of free activities, which are great if you have time to tinker with Crumble, or are looking for class projects in D&T using the devices. If you’re after an introduction to Crumble at KS2, then this Teach Computing short course is a perfect place to start. If you’d like an in depth look at how to integrate digital skills using Crumble in D&T then join us on this 2- day course, where you will have lots of hand-on experience with Crumble based D&T projects and also learn how to develop other digital skills such as CAD within D&T. You will have time to become skilled at integrating the devices into your D&T projects and find out how to develop digital skills in your D&T lessons.