Technological and applied studies (TAS) is mandatory for all students in Year 7 and 8. Students can also select from a range of elective TAS subjects.
In TAS, students develop knowledge, understanding and skills through a design and production process using a range of tools, materials and techniques in theory and practical lessons.
The continuum of technology learning is:
- mandated from Kindergarten to Year 8 through Science and Technology K-6 and Technology Mandatory Years 7-8 syllabuses
- based on students becoming increasingly sophisticated in their ability to apply knowledge, skills and understanding to design and produce solutions
- optional for student specialisation in high school through a range of syllabuses addressing particular technologies and aspects of design.
The Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) courses at GRC Oatley, engage students in a diverse range of practical and theoretical experiences. Designed to develop knowledge and understanding of contemporary and advancing technologies, they encourage students to develop solutions to identified problems and situations, and explore the impact of technologies on the individual, society and the environment through a range of topics and learning areas.
Available courses include:
- Technology Mandatory Years 7-8
- Agricultural Technology Years 7-10
- Design and Technology Years 7-10
- Food Technology Years 7-10
- Graphics Technology Years 7-10
- Industrial Technology Years 7-10
- Information and Software Technology Years 7-10
- Textiles Technology Years 7-10
- Agriculture Stage 6
- Design and Technology Stage 6
- Engineering Studies Stage 6
- Food Technology Stage 6
- Industrial Technology Stage 6
- Information Processes and Technology Stage 6
- Software Design and Development Stage 6
- Textiles and Design Stage 6.
Design and Technology
The Design and Technology course involves the study of design theory and practice, design processes, environmental and social issues, communication, research, technologies, and the manipulation of materials, tools and techniques. The exploration of designing and producing skills are developed through hands-on practical activities. Throughout the Design and Technology course, students have the opportunity to practise and develop their critical thinking, creativity and communication skills, by investigating the development, realisation and documentation of design projects. The Major Design Project and supporting folio requires students to select and apply appropriate design, production and evaluation skills to a product, system or environment that satisfies an identified need or opportunity.
Engineering Studies
Engineering Studies provides students with the opportunity to study engineering by investigating a range of applications and fields of engineering. Through a range of modules, students learn about historical and societal influences, the scope of the profession and develop skills in technical communication. Engineering Studies investigates and applies knowledge of engineering mechanics, hydraulics, electricity, electronics and engineering materials to solve engineering problems.
Food Technology
The Food Technology course provides students with the opportunity to develop a broad knowledge and understanding of nutrition, diet and health in Australia and factors influencing food availability and selection in Australia. Students investigate the Australian Food Industry, the production, processing, packaging, storage and distribution of food and the marketing of food products. Opportunities are provided for students to develop practical skills in generating, experimenting, planning, preparing and presenting food and are integrated throughout the course.
Industrial Technology - Timber and Furnishing
The Industrial Technology course provides students with the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of the Timber and Furnishings industry and its related technologies. Students are guided through a process of observing and analysing industry practice and complete practical experiences. The course aims to develop a broad range of skills and knowledge related to the Timber and Furnishing industry, highlighting the importance of design, management and production through the production of practical projects. Students will select and apply appropriate design, management and production skills in the development of a Major Project and supporting documentation.
Information Processes and Technology
The Information Process and Technology course provides students with the opportunity to learn about information-based systems and how social, ethical and non-computer procedures resulting from the processes are considered. Students study a range of types of information systems and through project work create their own information systems to meet identified needs.
Software Design and Development
The Software Design and Development course provides students with the opportunity to develop skills in designing and developing software solutions, project management and communication. Ongoing investigation into the different ways in which software can be developed, the tools that can be used to assist in this process and by considering the interaction between software and other components of computer systems is supported by a range of practical and theoretical experiences. Students apply a systematic approach to develop and document software solutions using a variety of data structures and language facilities.
Textiles and Design
The Textiles and Design course provides students with the opportunity to learn about design with a textiles focus including fabric colouration, historical design, cultural design factors and contemporary designers. Students investigates fibres, yarns, fabrics, innovations and emerging textile technologies, environmental sustainability, current issues and the Australian Textile Industry. Practical experiences, experimenting and product manufacturing are integrated throughout the course and include the completion of textile projects in year 11 for skill development. Throughout Year 12 students develop a Major Textiles Project including supporting documentation in a focus area of their choice.