Product Design Engineering
This box explores the psychological, technological and environmental impact of mobile phones. Covering five main session themes (see below), the aim of this box is give students an insight into the different aspects of design under the broader theme of mobile phones.
Session themes
Skin: Exploring materials used in phone casing, their durability and how well they age over time.
Skeleton: Delving deeper into circuitry behind mobile phones using breadboard circuits.
Attachment: Exploring the psychology behind attachment, looking at why we become attached to objects like mobile phones.
Global impact: Looking at the global supply chain for materials used to construct mobile phones, and the subsequent environmental impact transporting these materials has on the Earth.
Social Impact: Delving deeper into the positive and negative consequences mobile phone production has on communities that are involved in extracting materials, and making circuit boards.
Curriculum links
- GCSE Science: Physics & Electronics (Breadboard circuits)
- GCSE Design and Technology (specifically Product Design and Resistant Materials)
- Extracurricular: (Also suitable for lunchtime and or afterschool clubs)
Box contents
Teaching resources
- Memory stick
- Presentation
- Lesson plans
- Worksheets (both hard and electronic copies)
Equipment
X15 circuit kits (for Skeleton session)
Classroom requirements
A standard classroom is suitable for this activity.