Traditionally Design and technology has been thought of as "Craft" i.e. work of no real importance, just keeping the students busy with a non-academic subject. However modern times have changed technology education in schools. Design and technology is the only subject they take where students can show that they can take a problem from start to a manufactured and tested solution. These skills are valuable in further education and industry no matter what you do. At some time you will need to be able to breakdown a problem, analyse it, research possible solutions and produce an answer. This make take weeks and be formally documented or moments and happen in your head - but if you don't learn to do it you will always be the person who is told what to do. Career Prospects Product Design, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Transportation Design, Architecture, Interior Design, Design Consultancy, Marketing and Advertising. Aside from particular career choices, the subject provides students with a range of problem solving approaches that can be applied to many of life's day to day challenges The design and technology education specialises in project management and designing to meet the needs of the client. Effective time management is emphasised throughout a range of varied design tasks, which encourage the student to utilise a range of ICT and Key Skills, in the development and manufacture of new innovative products. The subject encourages students to adopt a realistic and professional approach to designing and as a consequence of this there are some investigative visits to local industries and exhibitions. The application of creativity and invention through the manipulation of materials produces rich rewards for many people, who derive great satisfaction from the practical application of their academic studies. Design and Technology Design and technology is a creative activity. It is not merely the 'the appliance of science', but is concerned with the designing and realising of practical solutions to real problems. The process of designing is the heart of the subject. It is also about developing attitudes and skills consistent with life in a modern technological society. The content broadly concerns the nature and characteristics of natural and manufactured materials and the nature of control and transformation of energy. As an exporting nation we need creative designers and technologists if we are to survive in this developing modern industrial world. The British government has reinforced this view by making design and technology education a major component of its education policy.