Technological and Applied studies (TAS) is mandatory for all students in Year 7 and 8. Students can also select from a range of elective TAS subjects in Year 9-12.
In TAS, students develop knowledge, understanding and skills through a design and production process using a range of tools, materials and techniques in theory and practical lessons.
The continuum of technology learning is:
- mandated from Kindergarten to Year 8 through Science and Technology K-6 and Technology Mandatory Years 7-8 syllabuses
- based on students becoming increasingly sophisticated in their ability to apply knowledge, skills and understanding to design and produce solutions
- optional for student specialisation in high school through a range of syllabuses addressing particular technologies and aspects of design.
TAS (Technological and Applied Studies) at ABHS
Technological and Applied Studies encompasses the subjects of Technology (mandatory), Design and Technology, Industrial Technology (Junior and Senior), Engineering Studies, Food Technology and Software Engineering. Vocational courses are offered in Hospitality and Construction.
The diverse nature of subjects offered within the school in the TAS faculty, provide opportunities for students to elect subjects in areas that interest them. All of these subjects are closely tied into possible career paths for students in the future.
Technology (mandatory) is studied by students in Years 7 and 8 for 200 hours over two years. Students learn about technologies and use a range of materials, tools and techniques relevant to the personal, commercial and global areas of human activity. Technologies, in the areas of Graphics, Metals, Timber, Model-Making, Food Technology, Polymers, Mixed Materials and Textiles, are applied to solve real problems and to create ideas and solutions in response to needs and opportunities for customers, clients or themselves.
Industrial Technology (Stage 5)
Students in Years 9 and 10 can choose to study Industrial Technology subjects in the focus areas of Building and Construction, Engineering, Metal, or Timber. The study of Industrial Technology subjects provides students with opportunities to engage in a diverse range of creative and practical experiences using a variety of technologies widely available in industrial and domestic settings.
Only two Industrial Technology subjects can be studied concurrently.
Stage 5 Industrial Technology subjects are organised according to the following table:
| Focus area | Core module 100 hours total | Specialised module(s) 100 hours total | |
| Building and Construction | Building and Construction 1 | Building and Construction 2 | |
| Engineering | Engineering 1 (Structures/Mechanisms) |
Alternative Energy (50 hours) |
Control Systems (50 hours) |
| School-Developed Engineering Module (50 hours) |
Transport (50 hours) |
||
| Metal | Metal 1 | Fabrication 2 (50 hours) |
Fabrication 3 (50 hours) |
| Metal Machining 2 (50 hours) |
Metal Machining 3 (50 hours) |
||
| Art Metal 1 | Art Metal 2 | ||
| Multimedia | Multimedia 1 (Web Design/Video Production) |
Multimedia 2 (Apps and Interactivity/Games and Simulations) |
|
| Timber | Timber 1 | Timber 2 | |
Industrial Technology (Stage 6)
Industrial Technology provides students with the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of either the Metals and Engineering Industry or the Timber Products and Furniture Industry. Through a process of observing and analysing industry practice and through personal practical experiences, students develop a broad range of skills and knowledge related to the industry. The course highlights the importance of design, management and production through the production of practical projects. Students select and apply appropriate design, management and production skills in the development of a Major Project that is marked externally.
Engineering Studies (Stage 6)
This course provides students with the opportunity to study engineering by investigating a range of applications and fields of engineering including civil, biomedical, telecommunications and aeronautical. Students learn about historical and societal influences, the scope of the profession and develop skills in technical communication. Students apply knowledge of engineering mechanics, hydraulics, electricity, electronics and engineering materials to solve engineering problems.
Design and Technology (Stage 6)
This course involves the study of design theory and practice, design processes, environmental and social issues, communication, research, technologies, and the manipulation of materials, tools and techniques. It involves hands-on practical activities which develop knowledge and skills in designing and producing. The course involves the development, realisation and documentation of design projects. The Major Design Project and supporting folio requires students to select and apply appropriate design, production and evaluation skills to a product, system or environment that satisfies an identified need or opportunity.
Food Technology (Stages 5 and 6)
This course provides students with the opportunity to develop broad knowledge and understanding about nutrition, diet and health in Australia, food availability and selection. Students investigate the Australian Food Industry, the production, processing, packaging, storage and distribution of food and the marketing of food products. Practical skills in developing, experimenting, planning, preparing and presenting food are integrated throughout the course.
There are eight focus areas:
Food in Australia
Food Equity
Food Product Development
Food Selection and Health
Food Service and Catering
Food for Specific Needs
Food for Special Occasions
Food Trends
OnGuard Safety Tests - Link to online safety tests for TAS and other subjects