The art of technology: a case study approach to linking art, design and technology at key stage 4

The Wigan Technology by Design Project is based on a partnership between schools, Wigan TVEI and the Design Dimension Educational Trust. It aims to use a design approach to technology education, develop flexible learning approaches to design and technology in Key Stage 4, build cross-curricular links, address issues of equal opportunity in the technology curriculum and develop the management skills of technology teachers. As part of this project, the Departments of Art and Technology in St. Mary's R.C. High School used a design approach to bring together the work of students following a GCSE Design and Communication course and GCSE Art. This paper describes their work and its evaluation, paying attention to management and staff development and their resolution.