Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: The advantages and disadvantages to a designer or manufacturer when using a range of digital communication methods to design and manufacture products, including: email, web conferencing, collaborative working through technology, radio frequency ident
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the key advantages and disadvantages of email, web conferencing, collaborative PLM platforms, RFID systems and AR in product design and manufacture.
  • Compare the suitability of each digital method for different stages of the product development lifecycle.
  • Evaluate security, cost and efficiency considerations when selecting a communication tool.
  • Apply a decision‑matrix to recommend the most appropriate method for a given design scenario.
  • Communicate findings clearly in a short presentation or written report.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Laptop with internet access
  • Printed handouts summarising each digital method
  • Sample RFID tags and reader (or images)
  • AR demo device (tablet or headset) or video demonstration
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Worksheet with decision‑matrix template
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: “Which digital tool do you use most when working on a group project?” Use responses to link prior experience to today’s focus. Remind students that effective communication can speed up design cycles but also introduces new risks. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to evaluate and choose the best tool for a specific design stage.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – short quiz on common digital communication tools and their basic functions.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – teacher presents the five methods (email, web conferencing, collaborative PLM, RFID, AR) using slides and real‑world examples.
  3. Group analysis (15') – each group is assigned one method, creates a poster of its pros and cons, and shares with the class.
  4. Decision‑matrix activity (15') – groups work on a case study (designing a wearable device) and fill out a worksheet weighing cost, security, speed, and suitability.
  5. Whole‑class debrief (10') – groups present recommendations; teacher facilitates discussion on trade‑offs and integration into the product lifecycle.
  6. Reflection & exit ticket (5') – students write one key takeaway and one question they still have on a sticky note.
Conclusion:
Recap the main strengths and limitations of each digital communication method and how they align with different design phases. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and address any lingering misconceptions in the next lesson. Assign a brief homework: research a recent industry case where one of these tools transformed the manufacturing process and prepare a one‑page summary.