SWATCH is a design thinking-oriented project currently completed by grade 9 students as part of a new school course that explores the language of design. The project, initially developed by a colleague prompts students to explore where design ideas come from. Students are asked to design a new watch, intended to be sold by Swatch that represents Singapore.

Students first research the nature available in Singapore and produce a design based solely on this. They then look at the cultural heritage of Singapore and produce a design based only on this. Finally, students research the art and design influences found in Singapore and produce a design based on this alone. 

Finally, students consider and combine design elements from their three earlier designs to create a cohesive design that best represents the essence of Singapore through a singular design language

Students use both sketching and Adobe Illustrator to develop their designs. 

Key concept(s): Idea generation

Related concept(s): Research (as a design tool) & Presentation (as a form of communication)

GUIDING STATEMENTS

EXAMPLE FINAL DESIGNS

PEER ASSESSMENT

Students seek feedback at critical completion and decision points throughout the project. A t the end of the project, work is exhibited and a peer assessment is conducted whereby students judge based on specific criteria, such as where originality meets function - this is to avoid voting for what they might perceive to be the ‘best’ design.