Garin College Garin College

Level 3 Digital Technology

DGT3
Subject Description

Teacher in Charge: E. Trudeau.

Entry Guidelines

Entry Guidelines

Year 13 Digital Technologies: Create with Purpose – Lead with Impact

In this integrated course, you’ll take your digital creativity and technical skills to the next level. Whether you lean towards coding, design, or media production, this course empowers you to plan, create, and evaluate a complex digital outcome that solves a real-world problem.

What You'll Do

  • Plan and manage a large-scale digital project from idea to execution
  • Use advanced coding and/or media design tools to create your outcome
  • Incorporate stakeholder feedback, testing, and real-world impacts
  • Explore how your project connects to cultural, social, and ethical issues
  • Build a professional-grade portfolio to showcase your skills

What You'll Learn

  • Complex planning and project management
  • Programming using Python, Flask, and SQL
  • System and database design (ERD, schema, validation)
  • UX/UI design, accessibility, and inclusive design practices
  • Evaluation and reflection through stakeholder engagement and testing

Key Tools You’ll Use

  • Programming & Back-End: Python, Flask, SQLite

  • Front-End & Media Design: Figma (free), Webflow (free tier), Piskel, Canva, Vectr, or other browser-based tools

  • Project Management: Trello, Notion, Gantt charts

  • Evaluation: Stakeholder surveys, user testing, feedback logs

  • Frameworks: Ao Māori, inclusive and ethical design principles

Ready to bring your ideas to life and make an impact through digital technology? Join Year 13 DigiTech and create something that matters.

Subject Overview

Term 1
Define & Design
Focus: Identify a problem, plan your outcome, design your solution
Write a proposal brief: context, user needs, outcome justification
Design UX interfaces or database structures
Use tools like Figma, Piskel, pen-and-paper wireframes, or draw.io
ERDs, schemas, data validation rules for back-end design
Project Management Plan
Use Trello, Notion, or Gantt charts to log tasks, milestones, risks

By end of Term 1:
Clear problem definition and stakeholder info
Planning and design documentation
Project management system in place

Term 2
Create & Test
Focus: Build your outcome and collect feedback
Create your product
e.g. a full-stack app, interactive narrative, website, animation, etc.
Begin testing with users/stakeholders
Update your project logs and reflect on changes

Use accessible, free tools:
For programming: PythonAnywhere, Replit, Flask with SQLite
For media: Webflow, Canva, Piskel, Vectr, Figma, Blender (if advanced)

Term 3
Polish & Evaluate
Focus: Finalise, document, reflect
Complete your digital outcome
Finalise stakeholder feedback and testing documentation
Submit final project documentation

Begin external prep:
AS91908 (Programming): Analyse an area of computer science
AS91909 (Media): Present a reflective analysis of developing a digital outcome

Term 4
Exam & Wrap-Up
Focus: Prepare for final assessments
Internal resubmissions or final portfolio tweaks
Sit your external exam(s)
Submit project files for NZQA moderation

Faculties:

Technology


Pathway

Level 2 Digital Technology

Choosing Level 3 Digital Technology equips you with advanced skills and knowledge, opening up these exciting and diverse career paths in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Career Pathways with Level 3 Digital Technology:
1. Software Developer/Engineer: Design and build software applications and systems, including mobile apps, web platforms, and enterprise solutions.
2. Game Developer: Create interactive video games, from concept design and programming to testing and launching on various platforms.
3. Data Analyst: Analyze and interpret complex data to help businesses make data-driven decisions and optimize their operations.
4. Cybersecurity Analyst: Protect organizations from cyber threats by identifying vulnerabilities, monitoring security systems, and implementing protective measures.
5. UX/UI Designer: Focus on designing user-friendly interfaces and experiences for software, websites, and applications to enhance user satisfaction.
6. Web Developer: Build and maintain websites, ensuring functionality, performance, and an engaging user experience.
7. IT Project Manager: Oversee and coordinate technology projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet project specifications.
8. Systems Analyst: Evaluate and improve computer systems and processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in organizations.
9. Database Administrator: Manage and maintain databases, ensuring data integrity, security, and availability for users and applications.
10. Cloud Computing Specialist: Work with cloud technologies to provide scalable and efficient storage, computing, and data management solutions.
11. Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer: Develop and implement AI and machine learning models to create intelligent systems and applications.
12. Digital Marketing Specialist: Use digital tools and platforms to create and execute marketing strategies that drive engagement and conversions.
13. Robotics Engineer: Design and build robotic systems for various applications, from manufacturing to healthcare, and develop automation solutions.
14. E-commerce Specialist: Manage online sales platforms, optimize digital storefronts, and drive e-commerce strategies to boost online sales.
15. Game Designer: Create game concepts, storylines, and mechanics, working closely with developers to bring innovative gaming experiences to life.
16. Technical Writer: Produce clear and concise documentation for software, systems, and technology processes to assist users and developers.
17. IT Consultant: Provide expert advice and solutions on IT systems and technologies to help businesses improve their technology infrastructure.
18. Digital Media Producer: Oversee the creation of digital content, including videos, animations, and interactive media for various platforms.



			
					
					Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
										
$30 course consumables, software licensing, stakeholder costs, electronic components.

										

								


				






    

        
Disclaimer

        
An individual course will only run if sufficient students are accepted into the course.
For 2026 Course Selection there will be some controls on subject sizes. These numbers will reviewed regularly as Course Selection proceeds and applications to 'full' courses will be reviewed at least weekly. Some courses have firm limitations due to resource constraints and these will be communicated on course pages, by teachers and Heads of Faculty.
All approvals for courses through this system are subject to satisfactory achievement in remaining internal standards and external examinations. Course Confirmation Day will run at the start of next year, where final approval for each course will be confirmed.