← Design and Technology syllabus

SingaporeDesign and Technology

Research and Investigation

3 dot points across 3 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do you break a design situation apart to find the real problems worth solving?

Analyse a design situation to identify the key problems, the people affected, and the questions research must answer
A clear answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on analysing a design situation. How to break a situation into the problem, the people and the constraints, and turn it into research questions before you start designing.
7 min answer →

What can you learn by taking apart and studying existing products before designing your own?

Carry out a product analysis of an existing product, examining its function, materials, construction and user experience to inform your design
A focused answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on product analysis. How to study an existing product across function, materials, construction, ergonomics, cost and appearance, and use the lessons to improve your own design.
8 min answer →

How do you find out what real users need, and how do you use that evidence in your design?

Plan and carry out user and market research using methods such as surveys, interviews and observation, and use the findings to inform the design
A practical answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on user and market research. Choosing methods such as surveys, interviews and observation, the difference between primary and secondary research, and turning findings into design decisions.
8 min answer →