Failure modes and effects analysis: its possible application to National Curriculum Technology

The first part of this paper describes a technique used in industry to evaluate products at the design stage in order to improve reliability and to minimise potential failure. The second part of the paper explores the extent to which this technique might contribute towards an appropriately structured approach which might enable students to evaluate artefacts and systems as part of an iterative process of design. A justification of this approach is offered and suggestions are made for activities which might be appropriate to different Key Stages of the National Curriculum.