Shows
Talking D&T[Archive] Talking Design Studio Pedagogy with Alice Hellard and Derek JonesSend me a message.Recommended read: Studio Properties: A field guide to design education (edited by Derek Jones , Elizabeth Boling, James Benedict Brown , James Corazzo, Colin M. Gray, Nicole Lotz)Derek Jones and Alice Hellard explore the concept of design studio as a transformative educational approach that extends beyond physical space to encompass social dynamics, extended cognition, and embodied knowledge.• Design studio is not just a physical space but a collection of practices involving social interaction, extended cognition, and listening in• Virtual design studios reveal important...
2025-08-2655 minTalking D&T[Archive] Subject Integrity: When Art Meets Design & TechnologySend me a message.Michelle Gregson, General Secretary and Chief Executive of NSEAD, discusses the relationship between art and design and design and technology education, exploring their distinctiveness while highlighting their shared values and challenges.NSEAD operates as a learned society, subject association, and specialist trade union for art and design educationBoth art and design and design and technology subjects face similar challenges of reduced curriculum time and resourcesMichelle describes a "spectrum of practice" where art and design focuses more on internal/artist expression while design and technology addresses external/user needsCurriculum "blurring" between...
2025-08-1945 minTalking D&T[Archive] Shaping the Future: The Evolution and Advocacy of Design and Technology Education with Tony RyanSend me a message.If you are interested in helping the Association evaluate their Inspired by Industry programme, sign up here: https://bit.ly/IBIinterestWhat happens when we look beyond textbook projects and expose 11-14 year olds to real industry design challenges? Tony Ryan, Chief Executive of the Design and Technology Association, reveals how they're transforming technical education from the ground up through their ambitious "Inspired by Industry" programme.Six years into his leadership role, Tony shares his passion for rebuilding design education with a fundamentally different approach...
2025-08-1244 minTalking D&T[Archive] Talking about design education in schools and higher ed with Max PownallSend me a message.Max Pownall is a product design lecturer at Nottingham Trent University. Find out more about Max and his work:Instagram (NTU Focussed)LinkedInUni profileFinal Year Degree online degree showMentioned in this episodeEvents with Alison HardyThe Design Thinking Toolboxhttps://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/books/michael-lewrick/design-thinking-toolbox/9781119629191Tools from the book at - https://en.dt-toolbook.com/tSupport the showIf you like the podcast, you can always buy me...
2025-08-0540 minTalking D&TD&T knowledge That Sticks: Residual vs Fingertip LearningSend me a message.Knowledge frameworks matter profoundly in Design and Technology education, yet teachers often struggle to distinguish between what students need to know for a specific project versus what builds lasting capability. This episode tackles that challenge head-on.In this episode, I explore the concept of knowledge frameworks in design and technology education, continuing my series on what research tells us about D&T. I delve into two types of knowledge that I believe are particularly relevant to our subject: residual knowledge and fingertip/situated knowledge.Drawing from Christine Counsell's work...
2025-03-1115 minTalking D&TFrom Circuits to Creativity: Reimagining D&T ResourcesSend me a message.In this episode, I chat with Kevin Spurr and Becky Forshaw from Kitronik, a company supplying D&T resources to schools. Kevin, a co-founder with 20 years of experience, and Becky, a former primary teacher, offer unique perspectives on the evolving landscape of D&T education.We explore how Kitronik develops products and resources balancing engagement, affordability, and curriculum relevance. Kevin shares insights into their manufacturing process and adapting to changing technologies, while Becky discusses creating flexible teacher resources.We discuss the shift in electronics teaching in secondary schools and...
2024-10-2238 minTalking D&TCurriculum Review Call to Action: Your Voice in Shaping D&T's FutureSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I break down the curriculum and assessment review for England. As a researcher in design and technology education, I highlight key sections relevant to D&T teachers and stakeholders.I walk you through the review's nine sections, focusing on areas like social justice, curriculum content, and assessment. You'll learn how to approach your response and understand the importance of providing specific examples.We explore D&T's place in the curriculum and discuss maintaining a broad, balanced offering in schools. I share thoughts...
2024-10-1029 minTalking D&TTalking Design Studio Pedagogy with Alice Hellard and Derek JonesSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I chat with Alice Hellard, Programme Lead for Design and Technology PGCE at Goldsmiths University, and Derek Jones, senior lecturer in sustainable design at the Open University. We talk about design studios and their potential impact on D&T education.Our conversation explores how studio practices can shape learning experiences, from primary classrooms to higher education. Alice shares insights from her teaching background, while Derek offers a unique perspective on virtual studios and they both discuss extended cognition in design.We tackle...
2024-09-2455 minTalking D&TShaping the Future of Design and Technology Education: An In-depth Conversation with Louise Attwood from AQASend me a message.Curious about how exam boards shape design and technology education? In this episode of Talking D&T, I sit down with Louise Attwood, Subject Support Lead for D&T at AQA. With eight years at the exam board and a background in teaching, Louise offers unique insights into the world of D&T qualifications.We explore the intricate process of curriculum development and assessment, uncovering how AQA works with the Department for Education, Ofqual, and teachers to shape D&T education. Louise reveals the challenges of balancing content breadth with depth...
2024-09-1734 minTalking D&TEngineering a Curriculum: Exploring Technology Education in the USASend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I had the pleasure of interviewing Scott Bartholemew, a professor of technology and engineering studies at Brigham Young University in Utah, USA. We explored the landscape of design and technology education in America, which is known there as technology and engineering education.Scott provided fascinating insights into the complex structure of technology education in the US, explaining how it varies significantly between states. He described the historical split between generalist technology education and career-focused technical education, represented by two main organisations: ITEEA and ACTE.
2024-08-2034 minTalking D&T🔒 Rethinking Craft in D&T: Beyond Skills to CapabilitySubscriber-only episodeSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I explore the nuanced role of craft in design and technology education. I reflect on a recent conversation with Nicky Dewer, which prompted me to examine the complexities surrounding hands-on learning in our subject.I argue against the notion of teaching high-level craft skills in schools, as we simply haven't the time to develop true craftspersonship. Instead, I propose that we focus on providing pupils with opportunities to engage in hands-on making as a means of developing their understanding of...
2024-07-1013 minTalking D&TWhy Teachers Should Shape the D&T Curriculum: A Conversation with Amanda Mason and Ciaran EllisSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I sit down with Amanda Mason and Ciaran Ellis to discuss their involvement in the Redesigning D&T project. We explore their motivations for joining the initiative and the valuable insights they've gained along the way.Amanda, a secondary school teacher in the Northeast of England, shares how the project has deepened her understanding of the subject and its varied interpretations across schools. Ciaran, head of design technology in the Northwest, describes it as the best CPD he's ever had, empowering him to engage...
2024-07-0933 minTalking D&TFrom School to Studio: Exploring Product Design Education with Jim DaleSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I sat down with Jim Dale, Head of Product Design at Nottingham Trent University, to explore the evolving landscape of design education. Jim shared fascinating insights into how university courses are adapting to prepare students for the diverse world of modern product design.We delved into the transition students face when moving from school to university, discussing how Jim's department helps broaden their understanding of design beyond physical objects to include digital products, systems, and services. Jim emphasised the importance of creating an environment...
2024-07-0331 minTalking D&TEmpowering D&T Teachers: Challenges, Solutions, and Opportunities with Ryan BallSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I had the pleasure of interviewing Ryan Ball from the D&T Association. Our conversation centred around the current state of the design and technology teaching workforce in England. Ryan shared his insights from visiting numerous schools across the country, highlighting the enthusiasm of primary school teachers and the challenges faced by secondary school teachers.We discussed the shift in demographics, with younger teachers bringing fresh ideas and skills in areas such as CAD and rapid prototyping. However, we also noted the increasing number...
2024-06-1840 minTalking D&TBalancing Theory and Practice: Exploring the Differences Between D&T and 3D Design at GCSE Level with Holly and HarkitSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I spoke with Holly Maxwell, a curriculum advisor for the Leigh Academy Trust, and Harkit Janagel, head of design and food at Strood Academy, about the differences between GCSE Design & Technology and GCSE 3D Design. We delved into the challenges teachers face when choosing between these qualifications and the reasons why some schools opt for 3D Design over D&T.Holly and Harkit shared their experiences and insights, discussing the emphasis on theoretical knowledge in the current D&T GCSE and how 3D Design...
2024-06-0450 minTalking D&TBridging the Gap: Insights on D&T Education from School to UniversitySend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I interview Milly Kearns, a final year Product Design student at Nottingham Trent University. Milly shares her experiences studying Design and Technology (D&T) in school and how that led her to pursue product design at university. We discuss the differences and similarities between D&T at school versus university, including the focus on collaboration, presentation skills, and the application of theoretical knowledge. Milly offers insightful advice for D&T teachers, suggesting they continue encouraging students to explore multiple ideas rather than fixating on...
2024-05-2835 minTalking D&TPrimary Perspectives: Shaping the Future of D&T EducationSend me a message.In this episode of the Talking D&T podcast, I interviewed Janine Pavlis, a lecturer at St Mary's University in Twickenham, London, who specialises in primary design and technology education. We discussed the current state of D&T in primary schools, including the statutory requirements, the typical structure of lessons, and the importance of creativity and problem-solving skills.Janine shared examples of good practice she has observed, such as the integration of computing skills and the use of real-world problems. However, she also highlighted the challenges faced by primary school teachers...
2024-05-2142 minTalking D&T🔒 The Art of Balancing Engagement and Learning in Design and Technology LessonsSubscriber-only episodeSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I reflect on the conversation published earlier this week with Tony Ryan about the various industry contexts developed by the Design and Technology Association for Key Stage 3 pupils in England. I explore the complexities that teachers face when designing a unit of work, particularly in the realm of design and technology.Drawing from the "Inspired by Industry" work discussed by Tony, I emphasise the importance of selecting contexts that engage and motivate young learners. However, I also acknowledge that not a...
2024-05-0911 minTalking D&TReimagining Design and Technology Education: The D&T Association's Innovative ApproachSend me a message.Early this year I had the pleasure of interviewing Tony Ryan, the Chief Executive of the Design and Technology Association. In this episode, Tony shared exciting updates about the association's initiatives to support and advance design and technology education in the UK.We discussed the "Reimagined" program, which focuses on developing a design-driven, problem-solving approach to the subject at Key Stage 3. The association has created 12 units of work, with plans to release up to 30, inspired by real-world challenges provided by over 300 industry partners. These units aim to engage students in iterative...
2024-05-0743 minTalking D&T🔒 Nurturing Collaboration and Support Networks in D&T EducationSubscriber-only episodeSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I wanted to delve into the topic of collaboration, support, and networks for design and technology teachers. Drawing inspiration from the successful model of the Food Teachers Centre, I discussed the importance of creating spaces where teachers can collaborate and share ideas while maintaining clear standards and boundaries around the subject.I reflected on how the shift from local authorities to multi-academy trusts has impacted the support and collaboration available to D&T teachers. The Food Teachers Centre has stepped...
2024-05-0211 minTalking D&TAddressing the Challenges and Opportunities in D&T Education: Insights from Dave ParrySend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I sit down with Dave Parry, Design and Technology Advisor at CLEAPSS, to discuss the current state of D&T education in England and explore potential ways to shape its future. Dave shares his insights from visiting numerous schools and highlights some of the main challenges the subject faces, including a shortage of trained staff, difficulties in recruiting and retaining teachers, and limited access to professional development opportunities.We delve into the importance of fostering collaboration among stakeholders, such as awarding bodies, to create...
2024-04-3037 minTalking D&T🔒 Rethinking D&T: Practical Strategies for Fostering Ethical and Sustainable DesignSubscriber-only episodeSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I reflect on my thought-provoking conversation with David Spendlove from Tuesday's episode. David's radical ideas about design and technology education, particularly his challenge to move away from unsustainable consumerism and embed critical thinking about values and politics, got me thinking about what this might look like in practice for D&T teachers.I explore how we can reimagine D&T lessons to put values and sustainability at the heart, moving away from designing and making products that may end up...
2024-04-2509 minTalking D&TRethinking Design and Technology Education for a Sustainable Future: A Conversation with Professor David SpendloveSend me a message.In this episode, I interview David Spendlove, a professor at the University of Manchester, about his radical thinking on design and technology education. Spendlove reintroduces his concept of "Design and Technology 2.0," which aims to create a new conceptual space for rethinking the subject without the baggage of its current form.David argues that the current model of D&T education, driven by materialistic outcomes and consumerist ideologies, may be doing more harm than good in today's context of sustainability and climate change concerns. He suggests that D&T education should move a...
2024-04-2345 minTalking D&T🔒 Making Sense of the Design & Technology Curriculum AimsSubscriber-only episodeSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I dive into the aims of the Design and Technology National Curriculum in England. I discuss the four main aims as they are currently written, analyzing what each one entails and how they contribute to the overall purpose of the subject. I explore the first aim, which focuses on developing creative, technical, and practical expertise to participate in a technological world. The second aim is about building a repertoire of knowledge, understanding, and skills to design and make high-quality prototypes a...
2024-04-2213 minTalking D&T🔒 Shaping the Future of D&T Education: Lessons from the PastSubscriber-only episodeSend me a message.In this episode of Talking D&T, I delve into the historical context and the reasons behind my decision to start the "Shaping Design and Technology Education" series. I reflect on the conversations and committees formed to discuss the state and future of D&T education in England, drawing parallels to the development of the national curriculum in 1990 and 2013. I express my concerns about the representation and balance of stakeholders in these committees, emphasizing the importance of power, legitimacy, and urgency in shaping the curriculum.I also...
2024-04-1111 minTalking D&T🔒 Unraveling the Complexities of Motivation in Design and TechnologySubscriber-only episodeSend me a message.In this follow-up episode to my conversation with Phil Jones about Remke's paper on intrinsic motivation, I delve deeper into the concepts of motivation and expectancy, drawing from my doctoral research and my chapter in the "Learning to Teach Design and Technology" book. I explore the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, emphasising that intrinsic motivation comes from within the pupils, such as the satisfaction of mastering complex tasks or learning something new, while extrinsic motivation stems from external rewards like passing exams or pursuing a particular career.
2024-03-2810 min