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Website reviews for Design and Technology

Art and Craft
Folk art and craft

Timber and timber products
Eximcorp: an innovative solution to your needs of plywood and other wood panel products
Timber technologies
Woodworking plans: Adirondack chairs, wood working projects, woodworking plan

The Australian Timber Database

Plastics
BPF: the home page for the UK plastics industry

Building and construction
Arup
Spec-net
Some assembly required: contemporary prefabricated houses
Tall buildings

Digital design
Digital Roman Forum
Duke CIT: Center for Instructional Technology
Dynamic drive DHTML (dynamic html) code library
NEED: a digital library for engineering education

Patents and intellectual property
United States Patent and Trademark Office home page
IPAustralia

Materials
MatWeb, the online materials information resource

Design
All-Write site: Frank Lloyd Wright building code
Architect Studion 3D
DesignLine
Flying pig gallery
Friends of the High Line
Glenn Murcutt
Making the modern world: stories about the lives we’ve made
NZEDGE.COM
Powerhouse Museum
Simplicity Boats
Sydney Opera House
Architecture : traditional and modern

Technology
3D model builder: learn the language of PlayStation
Lovitt Technology
HowStuffWorks
Intellecta Technologies
Carlovers car wash
AbleStable : serving the creative community
Technologystudent.com: a design and technology site
Robotics & Automation Lab

Research
Choice

Marketing
Vegemite

Environmental and ethical issues
EnviroNET

Design and Technology education
Holography collection
The Exploratorium’s science of cycling
University of Technology

3D model builder: learn the language of PlayStation
The site is a graphic design program used to create rendered images of 3D objects. Tutorials are provided for step-by-step instructions on drawing organic shapes, curves, buildings, models and engineering products. The user must first download the CAD software from the website and then follow the detailed tutorials to construct the various models. Initial trial software is free with the option to purchase additions to the basic package. Some designs are labelled as simple tasks for children, and examples of basic projects include building police cars, animals, buildings, boats and helicopters. Colourful and enthusiastically constructed, the site is an interesting learning tool for design and ICT topics. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: CA; TAS
SYLLABUS: Computing Applications CEC Stage 6; Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Graphics Technology 7–10; Visual Design CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computer-aided design; Graphic arts
PUBLISHER: TheyerGFX, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 17/07/11 [620] SCIS 1336091

AbleStable : serving the creative community
A community resource for creative arts, this web site is a very useful source of ideas and information for art, computing, and business students. In Articles, topics explain artists’ work in such areas as Business, Web design, and using the Internet. What’s new relates developments in the creative community, with a technological focus, and Tools contains useful artistic, mathematical, and technological online tools. The interactive Exhibitions uses photography and written text for excellent examples of web site design. Senior art students and English students will also find inspiration here. The site contains information for a variety of syllabuses, and teacher research will assess the full benefit of what is on offer. This will be time well spent. N. French
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; English; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Business Studies Stage 6; Design & Technology Stage 6; English Stage 6: Extension 2; Software Design & Development Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8;Visual Arts 7–10; Visual Arts Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Arts
PUBLISHER: AbleStable, UK
REVIEW DATE: 17/07/11 [700] SCIS 1183523

All-Write site: Frank Lloyd Wright building code
One of the most important aspects of education is to incorporate relevance into teaching experiences. This resource provides information and educational links based on one of the world's most influential urban designers, Frank Lloyd Wright. Students will be informed about how local and global environments, and materials used, affect design solutions in relation to architecture, furniture design, and technology. Linked lesson resources will enable students to investigate the use of the design process, identify factors affecting design and to develop ideas on presenting design solutions and ideas. Although the content applies to American examples of architecture, the principles and processes can be easily translated into NSW classrooms. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Industrial Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, American; Architecture, Modern - 20th century; Design; Wright, Frank Lloyd
REVIEW DATE: 18/07/11 [720.92] SCIS 1244088

Architect Studio 3D
An interactive student centred resource, this site is in line with architectural and engineering based design concepts that can be applied to Design and Technology and Industrial Technology syllabuses. Students can develop their knowledge of drawing concepts by using standards. They can explore spatial relationships and architectural designs by completing interactive activities, such as designing floor plans and three dimensional models of houses. These activities are based on identified criteria, such as who the house is being built for and where it will be located. Extension activities can be created from design based activities, which require students to engage in the design process and to scaffold their production of design ideas and presentation. This site can be slow to load, but the 3D tools more than compensate for the wait. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Industrial Technology 7-10; Industrial Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Domestic - Designs and plans; Houses
PUBLISHER: Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust, USA
REVIEW DATE: 18/7/11 [728] SCIS 1219198

Architecture : traditional and modern
With an emphasis on traditional architecture, this site provides details on the designs used in structures and styles, including the materials used and the reason behind the shapes used. Images are plentiful and inspiring. Technology students can research Measurements and Tools, and complete supported research projects on wood construction. In Teaching materials, a Webquest adventure based on traditional architecture will help Technology students achieve outcomes related to research and communication of ideas. Images and information on seventeen World cultural heritage sites will support Geography students completing Investigating the world. The site will also assist teachers in addressing multicultural influences on architecture within Australian society. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6;
Geography 7–10; Industrial Technology Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Japanese
PUBLISHER: L.A. Makela, USA
REVIEW DATE: 18/07/11 [720.952] SCIS 1183369

Arup
Arup is an intriguing and very large company that specialises in integrating sustainability with innovative building and engineering design. The magnificent Projects described here have multiple connections to TAS syllabuses and form an excellent resource for students. The site describes many international high profile designs, such as the massive airport terminal buildings of London and Dubai, and Beijing’s Olympic venues of the water cube and the bird’s nest stadium. There are many projects in various Locations, including Australian roads, water wise buildings, the Olympic Dam mine extension, the Mamu rainforest canopy walkway, and the Melbourne Recital Centre. Project descriptions are concise explanations of what, how and why. They are well written, interesting for students to explore, supplemented by many fine photographs, and ideal for use on IWBs. Where now for cities and How food shapes our future, both accessible from the home page, are interesting multimedia explorations of these issues. The latter offers a short slideshow on lost food varieties, and the effect of wealth on diet. This large and bountiful site is well worth a browse by teachers. Services A–Z is a good place to assess the site’s breadth and its application to NSW syllabuses. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Agricultural Technology 7–10; Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Stage 6; Food Technology 7–10; Geography Stage 6; Visual Design CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Building industry; Civil engineering; Sustainable development
PUBLISHER: Arup, UK
REVIEW DATE: 18/07/11 [338.7] SCIS 1444820

BPF: the home page for the UK plastics industry
Dealing with issues in plastics across the industry, this site provides educational and training information in Plastics materials. Animations help explain the production and processing methods used to develop and produce various types of plastics. There are detailed lists of plastic compositions and outlined examples of their use in various industries. How to process plastics contains information about recycling. The site is aimed at professionals and the language used is technical in some sections, making it a complex resource for students. It would be a useful site for Design and Technology syllabuses and the Senior Science Option: Polymers. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: Science; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Senior Science Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Plastics industry – Great Britain
PUBLISHER: British Plastics Federation, UK
REVIEW DATE: 18/07/11 [338.4] SCIS 1336100

Buildata: Building Australia online
Buildata is an Australian commercial web site that is devoted to building products and services. It provides building professionals and amateurs with an up to date building product library. Information about building products would prove useful to those involved in developing projects in the architectural area, building construction, and woodworking. Students engaged in technical drawing within many subjects will also find downloadable CAD drawings from this site, showing technical specifications to Australian standards. Links, which teachers would need to explore to verify their curriculum relevance, exist to many companies providing product information for the phases of designing, construction, and fitting out of buildings from domestic and commercial settings. The database is searchable. P. Thompson, R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design and Technology Stage 6; Technical Drawing 7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Building industry Australia; Building materials
KEYWORDS: Architecture; building products
PUBLISHER: DataTech (WA) P/L trading as Buildata, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 18/07/11 SCIS 1031483
EMAIL: [email protected]

Carlovers the ultimate carwash
An example of an entrepreneurial activity that has focused on a need to provide an environmentally safe service is provided by this small, self contained site. An innovative car washing service is described. The page outlines the environmental issues involved in relation to water saving features and energy savings. This company has won many environmental awards and is recognised by the CSIRO for its positive environmental impact. It is also useful for students to view this site as an example of a marketing activity.
T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U/3U Design & Technology
SCIS SUBJECTS: Environmental protection; Motor vehicles
KEYWORDS: Carwash
PUBLISHER: Carlovers Carwash Limited
REVIEW DATE: 18/07/11
EMAIL: [email protected]

Choice
Students are able to use this site to access secondary research on a product that they may be investigating in Design and Technology. There is a Product search feature, and a product list. Other categories include Computers and phones, Food, Money, Health, and Energy and environment. There is a section on consumer rights and a What's hot section that examines recent findings on a number of new products and services. This interesting, well designed site is updated frequently, and uses direct language that students will relate to, for example it describes products as lemons. Students can examine some interesting issues, including airbag safety in cars, environmental labelling and health issues for indigenous people in the Northern Territory. Online forums have been established where consumers can have their say about a product or service, and feedback forms are designed to obtain consumer comment on the products investigated. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U Design & Technology; 2U Food Technology; 2U Computer Studies
SCIS SUBJECTS: Consumer education; Consumer protection
KEYWORDS: Australian Consumers Association; Choice
PUBLISHER: Australian Consumers Association
REVIEW DATE: 19/7/11
EMAIL: Available on site

DesignLine
The website of a modern bus building company, the site has some interesting information for TAS students on contemporary engineering design. Site material stresses the environmentally friendly nature of the buses. It will suit students who are curious about vehicle design in general and fuel efficient designs in particular, and those researching hybrid and electric vehicles. Our environmental practice is a summary and Our innovative approach briefly explains design strengths. Our design & manufacturing process includes a vehicle assembly animation. Further details and images of bus models and their technical specifications can be found in DesignLine NZ; the company builds Australia’s buses in NZ. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS; VET
SYLLABUS: Automotive Curriculum Framework Stage 6; Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6; Industrial Technology 7–10; Industrial Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Buses – Design and construction; Buses – Environmental aspects
PUBLISHER: DesignLine, USA
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 [629.222] SCIS 1446559

Digital Roman Forum
A scholarly and comprehensive insight into the buildings of the Roman Forum is provided by this website. Students are able to access the digitally reconstructed Forum through plans, timelines and aerial photos. Each building is described in terms of its history and how the reconstruction was undertaken, with model information. Quicktime is needed to view the movie or 3-D views. This would be an invaluable resource for Ancient History students completing the Roman historical periods, as its overview of the development of the Forum is excellent. Stage 6 Visual Arts students may also find this site a useful adjunct to their art history and practical art components, while Design and Technology students could find this an interesting approach to model making and design problems. B. Hull
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: CA; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Ancient History Stage 6; Design & Technology Stage 6; Visual Arts Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture – Models; Architecture, Roman; Civilisation, Roman; Computer simulation; Rome (City) – Historic buildings, sites, etc
PUBLISHER: University of California, USA
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 [722] SCIS 1341633

Duke CIT: Center for Instructional Technology
The site provides a very useful overview of digital media tools used in working with audio, photographs, videos and multimedia. Within Resources>Getting started, site users will find some excellent material. The Web 2.0 toolkit is a good summary of what is available and what each tool does. Project planning guides includes a helpful guide for undertaking a digital audio recording project and Teaching & learning has some ideas to boost teachers’ confidence in working with digital technologies. Examples has projects with cross KLA applicable videos on such things as biodiversity, writing, and student created websites. Also in Examples, teachers and students will appreciate the practical advice in the lovely How can I, such as Use digital images in a course. For teachers new to digital technology and students keen to create digital projects, the site has some great material to help those processes along. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; English; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; English 7–10; Graphics Technology 7–10; Photographic & Digital Media 7–10; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8; Visual Design CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computer-assisted instruction; Educational technology
PUBLISHER: Duke University, USA
REVIEW DATE: 01/06/10 [371.33] SCIS 1455972

Dynamic drive DHTML (dynamic html) code library
An excellent resource for students and teachers building their own web sites, this site explores programming with Java. Especially useful for students of the Software Design and Development: Stage 6 syllabus (1999), samples of scripts are offered as guides to use when creating pages with dynamic HTML (hyper text markup language) to create: Menus and navigation systems; Special document effects; Scrollers; Links and buttons; and Text animations. All scripts are free to use if acknowledged. For Stage 6 students of design and technology and information processes and technology, who may not be as proficient in programming, there are helpers and wizards to assist in the development of web page presentations. P. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design and Technology Stage 6; Information Processes and Technology Stage 6; Software Design and Development Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Web sites ­ Design and construction
KEYWORDS: DHTML; dynamic HTML; Java; JavaScript; web pages; programming
PUBLISHER: Dynamic Drive
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 SCIS 1036127
EMAIL: [email protected]

EnviroNET Australia
A network of environmental databases providing information on a range of environmental issues is provided by this site. Databases are grouped as: Industry expertise; Cleaner production; Environmental education; Research and development; Hazardous wastes; and Environmental technologies. There are case studies, easily found under the What's new section, which are categorised by industry, for example manufacturing and construction. The case studies have a background statement, and an issue overview. The solution adopted by the company to an environmental issue is outlined and the benefits to the environment explained. The case studies are Australian. The site has few pictures, but the information is current and relevant. There are links to educational institutions and international environment sites. Time would be needed to verify the curriculum relevance of these links. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U Design & Technology
SCIS SUBJECTS: Industry, social aspects; Environmental protection
KEYWORDS: Environet; hazardous wastes
PUBLISHER: Environment Protection Group
REVIEW DATE: 10.7.98
EMAIL: [email protected]

Eximcorp: an innovative solution to your needs of plywood and other wood panel products
Specifications and safety information for timber and timber products can be found at the site of this timber supply company. The Medium density fibre boards page should be of interest to all teachers thinking of using this material in their workshops. Information on: Plywoods; Particle boards; Veneers; HMR boards; block boards; inlays; and laminates, are also present. There are graphics showing typical uses and details about: Availability; Storage, handling and maintenance; safety; and Properties. The information is comprehensive in detail. It would be appropriate for senior students and teachers who are designing and producing in timber or timber products. P. Thompson, R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design and Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Laminated wood; Particle board; Veneers
KEYWORDS: Particle boards; plywood; timber products; wood
PUBLISHER: Eximcorp India Private Ltd, India
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 SCIS 1031510
EMAIL: [email protected]

Flying pig gallery
Animated cardboard models may be purchased through this site. The models are constructed easily, using a sharp knife, scissors, and glue. Each model investigates a mechanism, and the completed models work! The site includes some downloadable free samples. This site would provide inspiration to teachers and students investigating mechanical systems. Of equal value are the pages explicitly dealing with mechanisms. Simple animations show the workings of Cams, Levers, Linkages, Ratchets, Crank slider, and Gears. These are colourful and informative, with excellent descriptions and explanations. P. Thompson, R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: ST; TAS
SYLLABUS: Science & Technology K-6; Design & Technology 7-10; Design and Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Gearing; Mechanical movements; Models and model making
KEYWORDS: Gallery; gears; mechanisms; pulleys
PUBLISHER: Flying Pig Company, UK
AUTHOR: IVES, Rob
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 SCIS 1031519
EMAIL: [email protected]

Folk art and craft
The site is an outstanding resource for TAS and Creative Arts teachers and students, giving them virtual access to some of the best art and craft in the world. A mix of traditional and contemporary works, with international contributions featuring strongly, the site’s material is a cross-cultural collection from the Smithsonian’s online art and design encyclopedia. There is a helpful A–Z list, which will focus research on this large site. Topics with direct relevance to NSW syllabuses include Photography, Sculpture, Painting, Ceramics, Fashion design, Graphic design, and Garden design. For example, the latter leads to seven fine examples, providing site users with information and images of rose, butterfly, rooftop, natural, and historical gardens, all useful to illustrate garden design in Technology (Mandatory) 7–8. Each of the site’s topics has historical and modern works, with much potential for educational use, especially in senior syllabuses. The site is also valuable as a directory of contemporary artists and current projects around the world. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Photography, Video & Digital Imaging CEC Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8; Textiles & Design Stage 6; Visual Arts 7–10; Visual Arts Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Fabrics; Fibres; Folk art, American; Textile crafts
PUBLISHER: Smithsonian Institution, USA
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/119 [745] SCIS 1132986

Friends of the High Line
A community group in New York City is dedicated to developing a recreational facility from a disused historic rail structure and this website looks at their vision. A brief history of the location, maps of the scheme, videos of the project, development proposals and historical footage of the railway are included. The website also features links to a number of similar projects that have been undertaken in America and Europe. These indicate successful upgrades of derelict elevated railway sections. The site is a useful resource for students of various technological subjects in Stage 6.A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Industrial Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Community life; Parks – Design and construction; Railways – United States – History; Social action; Urban renewal
PUBLISHER: Friends of the High Line, USA
REVIEW DATE:19/07/11 [712] SCIS 1371686

Glenn Murcutt
A comprehensive case study on the world renowned Australian architect, Glenn Murcutt, is the focus of this interesting web site. Students will learn about the influences that shape modern Australian architecture: materials used, environmental considerations and cultural implications. Examples of houses built and developed by Glenn Murcutt are accessible from nine sites located in More about Murcutt, and include descriptions of how he has used design principles and environmental considerations to produce the final product. Murcutt’s belief in the saying ‘touch the earth lightly’ demonstrates his appreciation of cultural influence. Extensive links to related sites provide students with ample resources to address any tasks related to modern Australian structures. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architects; Architecture, Australian; Architecture, Domestic
PUBLISHER: Primedia, USA
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 [720.92] SCIS 1186576

Holography collection
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology has the largest and most comprehensive collection of holograms in the world. This section of the museum’s site contains a collection of works representing the artistic and technical evolution of holography, created by some of the world's foremost holographers. Users can explore the invention, ideas, and innovation of holography through interactive exhibitions, public programs, experimental projects and other collections of the museum, including Architecture and design and Hart nautical. Multimedia contains videos and webcasts of scientists discussing emerging technologies. Collections database provides a search facility to over a million objects in the museum’s collection. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: CA; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Visual Arts 7–10; Visual Arts Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Holography; MIT Museum
PUBLISHER: MIT Museum, USA
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 [774.074] SCIS 1407848

HowStuffWorks
Working like an Internet search engine (but only within their own server), this fascinating site allows users to locate information on: how virtually any object with moving parts works; and the meaning of commonly used terms, phrases or customs. A keyword search facility and a range of categories help users to locate information. Hyperlinked words within the fact sheets lead to additional diagrams and text for further understanding and exploration. The direct, conversational language may appeal to students. Discussing the author's view of the audience, and clarifying American expressions could be helpful activities. Answers to related questions tend to be specific to America. Students requiring additional literacy support may find this a challenging site for independent research. This could be addressed, for example, by clearly focussed use of the site, structured group work, peer tutoring, and specific strategies to assist students to read the often dense text. Devices as diverse as toilets, computers, smoke detectors, planes and telephones are explained using simple scientific concepts, through text and diagrams, making this site applicable to the prescribed focus area Applications and uses of science of the Science Stages 4 -5 syllabus, and to several topics in the Physics: Stage 6 syllabus (approved 1999). S. Bremner, K. Heap, J. Morgan
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: Science; ST; TAS
SYLLABUS: Computing Studies 7-10; Design & Technology 7-10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6; Food Technology Stage 6; Physics Stage 6; Science & Technology K-6; Science Stages 4-5
SCIS SUBJECTS: Technology
KEYWORDS: Machines; physics; science
PUBLISHER: Howstuffworks.com Inc. USA
AUTHOR: BRAIN, Marshall
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 SCIS 986942

Intellecta
Robotics and control technologies are difficult to teach or for students to understand. Students of Design and Technology: Stage 6 syllabus (approved 1999) or Software Design and Development: Stage 6 syllabus (approved 1999) may like to investigate control systems as part of the design process in their courses. Information Processes and Technology Stage 6 syllabus (approved 1999) students when considering the Automated Manufacturing Systems option strand will also find the site relevant. Downloadable demonstration software is available to simulate control systems. Some excellent diagrams and photographs explain the concepts behind mechatronics and robotics. The company is now making accessories to attach to KNEX toys to use as a construction medium. P. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Information Processes & Technology Stage 6; Software Design & Development Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Industrial design ­ Study and teaching; Science ­ Study and teaching
KEYWORDS: Automated manufacturing; control systems; robotics
PUBLISHER: Intellecta Technologies
AUTHOR: Dr Tony Pugatschew
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 SCIS 1036139
EMAIL: [email protected]

IPAustralia
The intellectual properties Australia site is extremely useful for students who are conducting research on any Australian patent, design or trademark. The reading level is appropriate to senior students. There are excellent short case studies on Australian patents, some examples of which include the bionic ear, the orbital engine, Victa lawn mowers and Dynamic Lifter. These case studies examine in part the success of entrepreneurial activities, and most have diagrams or photographs .The sections on design registrations include case studies on the Sebel metal chair among many others. The section on trademarks incorporates case studies on Poppy lipsticks and the Redhead trademark. Students can read about copyright and there are links to other relevant sites such as the Victorian Innovation Centre, which has flow charts on the innovation process. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U/3U Design & Technology
SCIS SUBJECTS: Inventions; Patents; Copyright
KEYWORDS: Intellectual property
PUBLISHER: IPAustralia
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11
EVAL: Highly recommended
EMAIL: [email protected]

Lovitt Technology
Visitors to this comprehensive site are given an indication of the structure, history, and breadth of expertise of this well recognised precision engineering company. The latest technology is used throughout, including the transfer of drawings from clients to their machines via the Internet. The company works in the aerospace and defence industries, and excellent images of the results of their various machining techniques are shown. These are supported by descriptions of the advantages of processes. Their emphasis on quality control and assurance is also evident. Students of the metal technologies in particular will find the site an indicator of current state of the art manufacturing processes. P. Thompson, R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design and Technology Stage 6; Technics 7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Engineering - Equipment; Manufacturing processes; Metalworking machinery
KEYWORDS: Computer Numerical Control; Lovitt; metal; technologies
PUBLISHER: Lovitt Technology, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 SCIS 1031620
EMAIL: [email protected]

Making the modern world: stories about the lives we’ve made
An outstanding example of the educational uses of internet technology, the site has information on the development of modern society since the mid 1800s, with a timeline facilitating understanding. Icons of invention in scientific, technological and medical concepts are explored in images, sound and words. How technology and science have impacted on Everyday life is discussed. Guided tours focus on a variety of topics, including transport, women, conflict, health and employment. Learning modules currently feature demonstrations and activities using a variety of media on Biology, History and Psychology. Especially useful for science and technology topics, the site has extraordinary breadth and capacity for cross curriculum student engagement, from Urban sustainability essays to a creative audio visual using Kennedy’s moon landing speech. The site is designed for older students and is well worthy investigation by educators. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE; Science; TAS
SYLLABUS: Biology Stage 6; Design & Technology Stage 6; Geography Stage 6; HSC History Stage 6: Extension; Science 7–10; Textiles Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: History, Modern; Science and civilisation
PUBLISHER: Science Museum, UK
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 [303.48] SCIS 1391894

MatWeb, the online materials information resource
Covering a wide range of natural and synthetic materials, this is a huge collection of information about the physical and chemical properties of materials. Users are able to search for materials by: name; property; colour; metal composition; trade name; or manufacturer. For example, one could search for a "strong, green non conductor". Search strategies provides tips on how to use MatWeb most efficiently. The range of polymer based materials alone is staggering, and will provide Engineering Studies Stage 6 syllabus (approved 1999) students and teachers with a wealth of facts to use in the analysis of products. The site also has handy Conversion calculator and table for engineering units and weight conversions. P. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Engineering Studies Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Engineering; Materials
KEYWORDS: Hardness; material; metal; plastic; polymer; strength
PUBLISHER: Automation Creations, Inc., USA
REVIEW DATE: 19/07/11 SCIS 1036120
EMAIL: [email protected]

NEEDS: a digital library for engineering education
Engineering students and teachers will appreciate this digital library of online learning materials. The site is a useful portal for a comprehensive collection of resources in engineering and related areas of science and mathematics. Search allows for easy navigation through the index and a comprehensive search page includes drop down menus to help refine the desired criteria. A search on projects leads to many different projects related to engineering. About NEEDS has some relevant Publications and an interesting section in Current projects on the important topic of Gender equity. Community links to engineering pathways. Many areas in computing, science and engineering education are covered by the articles linked to this site. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Engineering – Education
PUBLISHER: NEEDS, USA
REVIEW DATE: 20/07/11 [620.007] SCIS 1308349

NZEDGE.COM
Created to laud the identity and international role of New Zealand and its people, the site is a well written and visually appealing collection of fascinating material. Heroes contains stories of high achievers such as designers, athletes and scientists who have made their mark on world culture. Features has stories and comments on contemporary issues. The site is a fine resource for the study of New Zealand within the Society and Culture Stage 6 syllabus, and for the study of design and textiles in Visual Arts and TAS syllabuses. Textiles students will be inspired by material in the Style index, within Top 10. For Design and Technology students, the site profiles some interesting innovations, such as motorbike design. There is a multitude of material for young artists and social scientists on the site, and students of New Zealand culture, art and design should find this site extremely interesting and useful. R. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: CA; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Society & Culture Stage 6; Textiles & Design Stage 6; Textiles Technology 7–10; Visual Design 7–10; Visual Design CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: New Zealand; New Zealanders
PUBLISHER: NZEDGE, NZ
REVIEW DATE: 20/07/11 [993] SCIS 1395559

Powerhouse Museum
The museum's site has a schools section, focusing on information technology. Students can access the success and innovation, style and transport pages in the Exhibitions section. Also information on fashion and accessories. In the Collection and research section there are short case studies with pictures of a variety of inventions such as the Vinten black box flight recorder and the Leyland P76. Some interesting Australian designs such as the bush pantry, and beautifully crafted wood pieces, as well as a challenging contemporary Aboriginal design piece by Artist Michael Jagamara Nelson are displayed. The virtual classroom project would be an interesting design project for Stages 3 & 4. The links to other Australian museums online provide information on food, electronics, building and other areas that could be pertinent to Design and Technology students, although time would be needed to verify the curriculum relevance of these. Teachers can download documents which will assist them in planning units of work or visiting the Powerhouse. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
bScience and Technology; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; 2U/3U Design & Technology; Science & Technology K-6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Design; Invention; Materials; Technology
KEYWORDS: Museum; Australia; Powerhouse
PUBLISHER: The Powerhouse Museum
REVIEW DATE: 20/07/11
EVAL: Highly recommended
EMAIL: Available on site

Robotics & Automation Lab
The site describes research on autonomous Mobile robots, including intelligent driving and walking robots, autonomous underwater vehicles, wheelchairs and unmanned aerial vehicles. Although it is university research, the work of the laboratory will connect with and interest motivated high school students. It is a well illustrated resource with great images and inspirational material for TAS students, especially gifted and talented students. The site explores the design of embedded controllers, Automotive systems, Embedded systems, and simulation systems. In Teaching, students can view the projects; this section also leads to practise work in computing for robotic design. For older students interested in working with robotics, this will be a fascinating resource. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Artificial intelligence
PUBLISHER: Robotics & Automation Lab, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 20/07/11 [629.8] SCIS 1412870

Simplicity Boats
Created to offer some inspiration and information for amateurs who are interested in boat building, this site contains images, drawings, plans and free detailed step-by-step instructions required to build simple sailing and row boats. The site provides a good example for Industrial Technology students on completing a construction sequence and planning project construction. Resourcesand Links reveal a large number of websites related to boat building and design software. This site would be particularly suitable when studying Timber products and furniture industries. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design and Technology 7–10; Design and Technology Stage 6; Industrial Technology 7–10; Industrial Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Boatbuilding
PUBLISHER: Simplicity Boats, USA
REVIEW DATE: 20/07/11 [623.8] SCIS 1407772

Some assembly required: contemporary prefabricated houses
This website looks at the design and structure of prefabricated housing and presents a variety of approaches. Easy to navigate, the website has many visual resources. There is a timeline on prefabricated construction in the USA and details about prefabricated houses such as the FlatPak house and the weeHouse, a one room cabin. Biographies about architects and audio clips about the exhibits are available. There are many links to related websites containing detailed information related to the design and construction of prefabricated homes, and an extensive essay on the development of the prefabricated house. It is a useful site for Technology students. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS; VET
SYLLABUS: Construction Curriculum Framework Stage 6; Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Industrial Technology 7–10; Industrial Technology Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Domestic; Houses – Design and construction
PUBLISHER: Walker Art Center, USA
REVIEW DATE: 20/07/11 [728] SCIS 1371675

Sydney Opera House
An opportunity to explore one of the world’s most recognised architectural icons and its historical surrounds is offered by this web resource. Toursand Guided tours offer information for Sydney Opera House tour and Backstage tour. The fully interactive feature, Virtual tour, provides access to all areas of the Sydney Opera House including the stage, backstage area and studios. Panoramic views of various aspects of the Opera House are available through a Flash based presentation. The presentation takes a short time to upload, and is well worth the wait. Students completing civics based subjects will be able to access images and information from a dynamic timeline of Sydney, from 1788 to the present, found in About the house. For Stage 4 and Stage 5 students, this site would make a fantastic destination for any web quest based on Australian architecture or the history of prominent Australian cities. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; History 7–10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Australian
PUBLISHER: Sydney Opera House
REVIEW DATE: 20/07/11 [725] SCIS 1187130

Tall buildings
Thewebsite of a 2004 exhibition takes a look at 25 of the world’s tallest buildings, such as the new World Trade Centre, London Bridge Tower, Jin Mao and the New York Times HQ. Information for each includes the architect, design and floor plans, images, material structure and history. The site is easily navigated with Flash animations giving construction and contextual detail. As well as individual pages for each building, the website allows for comparison of the buildings in regard to their height, geographic location, program distribution and total area. Students of design, engineering and architecture would benefit from using this site when looking at building designs. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Skyscrapers - Design and construction
PUBLISHER: Museum of Modern Art, USA
REVIEW DATE: 21/07/11 [720] SCIS 1313505

Technologystudent.com: a design and technology site
A terrific resource for technology students and teachers, this web site is packed with information and online interactive exercises. Subject areas include robotics, computers, Electronics, Equipment and processes, Gears and pulleys, and Graphics. From the site's activities students can gain an understanding of workshop Health and safety, technological development over the years in Technology and cultures, and alternative energy sources in Technology and the environment. Teachers are provided with project templates and project ideas. The web site is easy to use and is visually appealing. A feature of the resource is the site search facility, which is extremely efficient and provides excellent responses. A. Kokkotas
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Graphics Technology 7-10; Information & Software Technology 7-10; Technology (Mandatory) 7-8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Industrial design; Technology
PUBLISHER: V. Ryan, UK
REVIEW DATE: 21/07/11 [745.2] SCIS 1244107

The Exploratorium’s science of cycling
The second in a series of three planned sports science resources, this is a large website, with over 20 pages in six main sections. It has 20 audio and video clips, interactive javascripts, and lots of images. Easy to navigate, the website provides a detailed look at Drives and gears, the design and mechanics behind Frames and materials, Braking and steering development and design, and Aerodynamics and Human power. This website provides an interesting and informative look at the specific design of a product and its development over time. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; Science; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6; Science 7–10; Visual Design 7–10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Bicycles and cycling
PUBLISHER: Exploratorium, USA
REVIEW DATE: 21/07/11 [796.6015] SCIS 1248439

Timber technologies
Designed to help students with timber projects, the site uses two cartoon characters, Wendy and Owen, who guide site users around a virtual woodwork room. Sections of Design, Projects, Materials, Tools, Techniques and Evaluation contain student focused information, with photographs, drawings, diagrams, worksheets and useful links. Students are shown the process and worth of a portfolio, with links to designer profiles in Design. There are examples of projects linked to a design brief, a detailed look at different timber types and woodworking tools relevant to students, and explanations of techniques used to create timber projects. Evaluation looks at designs and finished products, plus how to evaluate the timber tools and techniques used. The Sitemap is the most useful navigation route to topics and for accessing the glossary and activities material. A. Murray
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Industrial Technology Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Design; Woodwork
PUBLISHER: Timber Technologies, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 21/07/11 [684] SCIS 1419750

United States Patent and Trademark Office home page
General information about patenting and trademarks, and a full text and image database of patent articles, are found at this huge, searchable site. The resulting pages give a comprehensive product description, and these would need to be further analysed to discern exactly what the product is able to do. Bibliographic and full text searches for products are available. Teachers may find the site a useful adjunct to technological literacy work. Technical language is used throughout. P. Thompson, R Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design & Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Inventions; Patents; Trademarks
KEYWORDS: Patent; trademark
PUBLISHER: US Patent and Trademark Office SCIS 1031597
REVIEW DATE: 21/07/11
EMAIL: [email protected]

UTS home page
At this very comprehensive site, students can access the UTS faculties that offer courses which relate to the content examined in Design and Technology. There are extensive courses in marketing, and the Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building lists many fields of study such as fashion design. Course details and information about careers are outlined in this section. There is information about student life at UTS. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U/3U Design & Technology
SCIS SUBJECTS: Universities and colleges
KEYWORDS: University; technology; design
PUBLISHER: UTS
REVIEW DATE: 21/07/11
EMAIL: [email protected]

Vegemite
The Australian innovation of Vegemite is presented on this site. It has a time line, which provides information about the inventors, and profiles the marketing and growth of vegemite since its conception. The site is relevant for senior students in Design and Technology, as it details the historical development of marketing techniques, the trademark and the package over 75 years. The site also has detailed nutritional information, recipes, lots of photos, animation, and an individual growth chart. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: Science & Technology; TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U Design and Technology; 2U Food Technology; Science & Technology K-6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Nutrition; Marketing
KEYWORDS: Vegemite
PUBLISHER: Kraft Foods
REVIEW DATE: 21/07/11
EMAIL: Not available

Woodworking plans: Adirondack chairs, wood working projects, woodworking plans
Though the plans on this site are for sale, a huge range of project ideas, with good images, are provided. Students should find enough variations on a theme to enable them to stretch their own imagination in the design and development of their own projects. An E-zine is available to have updates on plans and associated accessories regularly emailed. The site has plans for a variety of projects, such as a Cessna airplane model made from recycled aluminium cans. Project categories include: indoor and outdoor furniture; Kids plans; Airplanes; bird houses; and a range of seasonal projects. P. Thompson, R Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design &Technology Stage 6; Technics 7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Woodwork
KEYWORDS: Furniture; models; timber; plans; projects
PUBLISHER: Gold Country Woodworks, USA
REVIEW DATE: 21/07/11 SCIS 1031183
EMAIL: [email protected]

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The views expressed by reviewers are not necessarily those of the NSW Department of Education and Communities. Copyright for reviews is held by the NSW Department of Education and Communities. Permission for reproduction of reviews in part or full for any purpose must be sought in writing. For further information contact [email protected]