← Design and Technology syllabus

SingaporeDesign and Technology

Research and Investigation

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do anthropometric data and ergonomics make a product fit the human body comfortably and safely?

Apply anthropometric data and ergonomic principles, including the use of percentiles, to size products so they fit and suit their intended users
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on anthropometrics and ergonomics. Body measurement data, percentiles, designing for a range of users, and the difference between the two terms.
8 min answer →

What is the difference between primary and secondary research, and how does a designer choose the right method for a problem?

Distinguish primary from secondary research, select appropriate methods such as interviews, observation, surveys and product study, and turn findings into design requirements
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on research. Primary versus secondary methods, when to use interviews, observation and surveys, and how findings become requirements.
8 min answer →

How does taking an existing product apart, in analysis, reveal what makes it work and what could be improved?

Carry out product analysis of an existing product, examining function, materials, construction, ergonomics, aesthetics and cost, to inform a new design
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on product analysis. Analysing an existing product by function, materials, construction, ergonomics, aesthetics and cost, and using the findings.
7 min answer →

How does a designer turn a pile of research into a clear, justified specification that drives the rest of the project?

Write a justified design specification from research findings, covering function, ergonomics, materials, safety, cost and aesthetics, with measurable points where possible
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on specifications. Building justified, measurable specification points from research across function, ergonomics, materials, safety, cost and aesthetics.
8 min answer →