2020 School Magazine

YEAR 11 DESIGN

S tudying Digital Solutions this year has been both challenging and rewarding. From coding web applications through to creating databases, we have been given the opportunity to experience a variety of projects that fall within a digital developer’s field of work. In Unit 1 we expanded on our coding skills from previous years of studying technologies to create a web application designed to assist younger students with either numeracy or literacy skills. This project taught us the importance of utilising effective design principals to create a positive user experience. The project also allowed us to develop useful problem-solving skills. In Unit 2 we were introduced to database programming and data- driven problems. The skills we gained here allowed us to create and query tables for storing data and information with the SQL language. We also learned the importance of data integrity and security, and how to safely protect stored data. For our main project we utilised our knowledge from both Units 1 and 2, creating a web application that could connect to external databases. The interface was designed to allow users to view the BGGS ‘Aspire’ music collection, created by Year 10 music students. This project also provided us with the opportunity to learn how to manage user registration forms and safely maintain the integrity of the user’s data. As these practices are used in real-world digital solutions, we were able to experience a code developer’s process; from initial brainstorming, through to developing prototypes and then generating a functioning interface. Alexandra Playford (11H) YEAR 11 DIGITAL SOLUTIONS

S enior Design this year focused on teaching us about the design thinking and problem solving that occurs in real-world design scenarios. In Term 1 the Year 11 cohort explored a range of design areas, which included fashion design, interior design and landscape architecture. Students learned key visual communication skills through sketching and rendering techniques, as well as how to use digital platforms such as Autodesk-Fusion 360, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop. In Term 2 we focused on the concept of ‘Commercial Design’. Dr Amy Langford, a past Brisbane Girls Grammar School student, inspired us to re-design Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for healthcare professionals working amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Students used 3D printing and laser cutting techniques to produce acrylic face shields. In Term 3 students focused on following professional design practices in order to create a commercial product. Students developed prototypes of plant pots before using laser cut materials such as acrylic and plywood to create a final design. In Term 4 we studied ‘Human Centred Design’, which allowed us to apply the skills we had learned throughout the year in preparation for the Year 12 Design course. The unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic presented our cohort with valuable real-world design experience and a stand out memory will be the production of our laser cut, acrylic face shields. The exceptional facilities available through the BGGS Design Department helped us to bring our design concepts to life. The Year 11 Design course has been thoroughly enjoyed by all students. Charlotte Simpson (11O)

DIGITAL S tudying Digital Solutions this year has been an amazing experience. We predominately concentrated on data security, data management, and web-based coding through several projects. In Unit 3 we were required to prepare a pitch for an innovative digital solution that aimed to minimise data deficiencies, with a focus on food and beverage categories. Through this project we learned how a user’s experience can be enhanced by considering usability principles and adhering to the principles of good design. In Unit 4 we focused on creating data-driven solutions, generating either a Star Wars or Pokémon phone application for the BGGS Anime Club. This project allowed us to develop critical-thinking skills, while expanding our knowledge of code. Our major project for the year was to create a digital solution for an Art Gallery Management System. This project was my favourite. It allowed us to explore how to create a user-friendly and secure system where artwork data could be easily added and edited. While Digital Solutions might initially appear to be a subject dedicated to coding, it is so much more. Digital Solutions has provided us with invaluable opportunities to practice real-world problem-solving by analysing complex systems and pitching ideas in a professional environment. Josephine Clough (12L) YEAR 12 DIGITAL SOLUTIONS

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