Branksome Hall Asia’s Head of Design & Technology, Aidan Hammond, was recently interviewed by Forbes Korea to discuss the school’s commitment to fostering creativity through design thinking. Design thinking is a structured framework for approaching problem-solving, collaboration, and learning, and is a key element of Branksome Hall Asia’s curriculum.
In the interview, Hammond explained how the school integrates design and technology across all grade levels, starting from elementary through to the Diploma Programme. Students learn practical skills, such as coding, 3D printing, and game development, and engage in projects that challenge their creativity and problem-solving abilities. The design and technology program is a compulsory subject for students in grades 6 to 9 and offers specialized courses in grades 10-12, including product design, robotics, and digital media design.
Hammond emphasized the importance of collaboration in the creative process, highlighting that working together fosters innovation and allows students to refine their ideas. “No matter how brilliant an idea is, you can’t do it alone,” he said. This collaborative approach extends to real-world applications, where students work on projects such as developing an adjustable laptop stand to alleviate user discomfort. Hammond described the project as an example of how students can transform ideas into functional products using advanced design techniques.
Branksome Hall Asia’s facilities, including the Makers space with its cutting-edge tools, are integral to this hands-on learning experience. Hammond also discussed how the school’s design and technology courses empower students to think critically, engage with their communities, and prepare for future careers as innovative technologists.
The school also links its design and technology program to entrepreneurship, encouraging students to explore innovation in business. The Entrepreneurship course goes beyond product development, covering topics like market research and startup creation. Students have the unique opportunity to develop real-world products and even launch them on global crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter. This exposure to the startup world enhances their entrepreneurial thinking and prepares them for future challenges in both design and business.
