Design and Technology
Alternative technologies
The Centre for Alternative Technologies considers the environmental approach to technology.Bad Human Factors Designs
A US site which approaches DT in a more humourous way than most. Examples of poor design are described in a narrative form and then suggestions are made for improvements. Particularly useful as a way of giving children a model for evaluating their own projects. CAD/CAM in Schools
Site promoting the government initiative to ensure all UK secondary schools have access to CAD/CAM facilities. Offers licensing and training courses for Prodesktop, ArtCam and Speedstep software. Includes a showcase showing off pupils' achievements. Cool Text
From glitzy logos to funky fonts, cooltext provides a selection of free design tools for students working on design and packaging skills, and teachers preparing course material. D & T Online
A collaboration between a number of professional agencies. Glossaries and advice sit alongside interactive materials such as the PCB builder which allows students to construct circuit boards. The packaging designer is also good. The Design and Technology Association
Publications, resources, information on the association's CAD/CAM initiative, and a chance to join an informal network of educators interested in the values of D&T education. You'll also find details on training and professional development, and a useful primary section with dedicated projects and resources. Food and Drink Federation websites
Foodlink, Foodfitness, Foodfuture
All three of these sites are produced by the FDF, and all offer balanced and intelligent perspectives on food safety (Foodlink), healthy eating (Foodfitness) and the GM debate (Foodfuture). Food Technology
A comprehensive examination of all aspects of food technology for key stage four students and teachers, including food science, processes, business, and ICT in product development and manufacturing. Offers online analytical tools, direct links with industry professionals and case studies supported by video clips. How stuff works
Detailed information on the workings of a huge range of products and inventions. Useful from Key Stage 2 and upwards. IDEERS eathquake engineering competition
Developed by the Earthquake Engineering Research Centre at Bristol University, IDEERS - Introducing and Demonstrating Earthquake Engineering Research in Schools - includes a competition to make models of earthquake-resistant structures. Formula 1 in Schools technology challenge
The F1 Challenge involves designing and building a model racing car and competing with schools around the country. Mechanical toys
Devoted to creating mechanically or kinetically powered toys, this site puts rubber bands, springs, flywheels and gravity to good use. Great activities. National Curriculum (DT)
Outlines the key objectives for Design and Technology in the National Curriculum npower
Excellent educational resources - "Power Packs" - and learning games featuring Claude the Sheep. Nuffield Primary Design and Technology
An excellent gateway to DT information on the net and a useful set of resources to support teachers in DT and ICT education. Nuffield Secondary Design and Technology
As above. Technology Links
A list of good DT resources online. Soda Constructor
A site designed for editing and animating two-dimensional models made out of masses and springs - which entirely fails to communicate the sheer joy that it can impart to users. Create your own models or use a prepared set and adapt everything, from the tension in the springs to the gravity of the environment. Technology teaching ideas
A short list of ideas for classroom-based technology lessons. Some good suggestions, but there aren't really enough of them.
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