Joining up the DOTs
Authentic teaching and learning in Design and Technology education
Bill Nicholl (University of Cambridge)
Julia Flutter (University of Cambridge)
Ian Hosking (University of Cambridge)
P. J. Clarkson (University of Cambridge)
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Abstract
This paper reports on an innovative approach for teaching creativity in Design and Technology education based on the notions of authentic learning. Working with secondary schools in England and Ireland, the research team has been developing an intervention known as 'Designing Our Tomorrow' (DOT) which introduced students to the important principles of Inclusive Design (also known as Universal Design). Through interview and survey data, the team gained insights into students' responses to the DOT intervention and they found that students' creativity and empathy were enhanced following their engagement with the intervention materials.