Engineering Studies introduces students to engineering principles and systems, and is based on finding solutions to real-world problems. In this interdisciplinary course, students apply engineering processes, understand underpinning scientific and mathematical principles, develop engineering technology skills and explore the interrelationships between engineering and society. They rely strongly on their creativity, critical thinking and problem solving skills to turn ideas into reality and to develop solutions to problems.

The course focuses on understanding the engineering design process, to develop products, systems and processes. Students are required to undertake a variety of engineering design challenges which include activities such as testing of materials, formulation of problems, analysis of engineering solutions, modelling solutions and prototyping.

Engineering Studies equips students with the skills and knowledge to make positive contributions to the future of societies and the environment. The course promotes the importance of being socially responsible and conscious of global community issues that may impact on the environment and sustainable management of resources.

The Engineering Studies course is written under The TECHNOLOGIES FRAMEWORK 2019: BSSS TECHNOLOGIES Framework

Achievement Standards for TECHNOLOGIES courses can be found within the Framework.

Students will demonstrate knowledge of research, skills of ideation and design, prototyping production, solution testing and communication of their understanding. Technologies promotes deep learning, creativity and innovation.

Engineering Systems

This unit focuses on engineering systems and how multiple components operate and interact, to serve a single function as a solution. Students learn about the broader context of an engineering solution taking a holistic view. Systems that may be explored include building, mechanical, electrical or mechatronic systems. Students explore user needs, including user needs analysis and requirements, and breaking design problems and solutions into smaller parts. They create design solutions using scientific concepts, mathematical tools and computer-based simulations.

Engineering Processes & Concepts

Students learn about engineering design processes and concepts, and how they are used to develop and optimise solutions to problems, with reference to sustainability, cost and the life cycle of an engineered solution. They explore and investigate existing products, materials and components in response to a design brief. Students design and create working models or prototypes of their solutions.

Applied Engineering

In this unit, students learn how engineering design processes, including project management, are applied to solve existing problems. They explore real world problems of increasing complexity requiring project-based solutions. Students use guidelines and a context to apply knowledge of the engineering process and theory, to develop and respond to design briefs.

Future Challenges & Innovations

In this unit, students learn about emerging societal, global and environmental challenges, and the potential for innovative engineering and emerging technological solutions. They explore and research future global challenges. Students research and understand the implications, ethical and otherwise for new innovations to develop novel engineering solutions to these challenges.

Independent Study

An Independent Study unit has an important place in senior secondary courses. It is a valuable pedagogical approach that empowers students to make decisions about their own learning. An Independent Study unit can be proposed by an individual student for their own independent study and negotiated with their teacher. The program of learning for an Independent Study unit must meet the unit goals and content descriptions as they appear in the course.

Engineering Studies A/T (611 KB)

Engineering Studies A/T (302 KB)