Technological and applied studies (TAS) is mandatory for all students in Year 7 and 8. Students can also select from a range of elective TAS subjects.
In TAS, students develop knowledge, understanding and skills through a design and production process using a range of tools, materials and techniques in theory and practical lessons.
The continuum of technology learning is:
- mandated from Kindergarten to Year 8 through Science and Technology K-6 and Technology Mandatory Years 7-8 syllabuses
- based on students becoming increasingly sophisticated in their ability to apply knowledge, skills and understanding to design and produce solutions
- optional for student specialisation in high school through a range of syllabuses addressing particular technologies and aspects of design.
The technology and applied studies (TAS) faculty encompasses a vast array of subjects which deal with technology. Students are given the opportunity to engage in a diverse range of creative and practical experiences which draw on a variety of technologies.
Students at the Stage 4 level are given a taste of 8 different technologies, which they can then specialise in at the Stage 5 level. They have the ability to choose 3 elective subjects at this point.
Students at the Stage 6 level have the ability to concentrate their study on technologies as diverse as engineering, food technology, textiles, industrial technology, hospitality and construction.
Throughout all TAS subjects, the underlying principle is one of engagement in creative problem-solving and skill accumulation/building in a project based context.
Given Australia's need for an ongoing supply of skilled workers, particularly in information and communications technology (ICT), TAS subjects are well placed to meet students' requirements, where an emphasis is on critical thinking in a collaborative environment.
Technology mandatory (Years 7 and 8)
Technology (mandatory) covers the mandatory portion of the TAS key learning area. The course carries on from the Kindergarten to Year 6 Science and technology strand.
The aim of the course is to develop students' ability to design, produce and evaluate quality solutions that respond to identified opportunities and needs. It enables students to justify solutions and to responsibly, safely and creatively use and select materials, tools and techniques.
Design and technology (Years 9 and 10)
The aim of design and technology is to engage students in technological innovation and the world of design while exploring the impact on individuals, society and environments. Technologies are in constant and rapid change and they evolve and develop to the extent that they have an impact on the environment and our lives.
Design and technology students will be provided with the opportunity to develop:
- skills to enable them to apply the design process, develop, communicate solutions, create systems and use technologies to solve problems
- projects related to everyday life, identify problems and create solutions
- functional and aesthetic design solutions which allow students to be innovative and creative in their thinking and application
- critical analysis of design problems and solutions with a broad science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) focus.
Food technology (Years 9 and 10)
The aim of the food technology Years 9 and 10 syllabus is to actively engage students in learning about food in a variety of settings, enabling them to evaluate the relationships between food, technology, nutritional status and the quality of life. Students will develop confidence and proficiency in their practical interactions with and decisions regarding food.
Graphics technology (Years 9 and 10)
The aim of graphics technology is to develop in students the ability to think creatively, devise solutions and communicate information to a range of audiences using a variety of graphical techniques and media.
Graphics technology provides students with the opportunity to:
- develop an understanding of the significance of graphical communication and the techniques and technologies used to convey information and ideas (including 3D printing)
- become aware of the age of globalised industry and rapid technological development, where computer-aided design (CAD), computer aided manufacture (CAM), interactive graphic design (IGD) and multimedia applications are widely used
- utilise the truly universal language of graphics
- develop specific manipulative and cognitive skills in using a variety of tools, materials and techniques widely available in industrial, commercial and domestic settings.
Industrial technology (Years 9 and 10)
The aim of industrial technology is to develop students in knowledge, understanding, skills and values related to a range of technologies through the safe interaction with materials, tools and processes in the planning, development and construction of quality practical projects.
Information and software technology
Information and software technology teaches invaluable computing skills that will transfer to any field which may be of interest. This course will inform students what happens behind the scenes in their computers and computer applications which will create more powerful computer users.
Students will develop skills in a wide variety of computing applications such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Access. Students will also have opportunities to look at some specific skills within the Adobe Creative Suite. They will also learn how the Internet works and how to use it as a powerful tool in research and learn the basics of software development and programming with an introduction to visual basic.
Higher School Certificate (HSC)
TAS offers a wide range of HSC subjects. These include:
- construction
- design and technology
- engineering studies
- food technology
- hospitality
- industrial technology—timber
- industrial technology—multimedia
- textiles and design
- information processes and technology
- software design and development.