Applied Subjects
Ngee Ann Polytechnic will be offering applied subjects to upper secondary students at SST from 2012. The subjects which are designed, conducted and assessed by Ngee Ann Polytechnic are equivalent in rigour and scope to existing GCE O-Level subjects. The applied subject results will be reflected in the GCE O-level Examination Certificate and recognised for admission into Junior Colleges and Polytechnics.
The applied subjects offered in SST are: Biotechnology, Computing, Design Studies and Electronics. The school will continue to explore with MOE and the tertiary partners to offer other applied subjects in years to come.
The Biotechnology course introduces students to the study of the use of living organisms or their products, and cellular biomolecular processes, to solve problems or make useful products for the benefit of mankind.
The subject uses knowledge from a variety of disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, bioinformatics, genetic engineering and manufacturing processes. The subject of biotechnology is distinct from biology; while biology studies basic processes of living organisms, biotechnology is the application of biology to solve problems and improve lives.
Students will learn principles and applications of various areas of biotechnology such as cell culture technology, microbial biotechnology and recombinant DNA technology. This subject helps students develop good laboratory skills and a research mindset. It also provides students with the foundation for further studies in biotechnology, biomedical science and other related fields.
The Computing course equips students with computational thinking and creativity to analyse and solve problems. Computational thinking is a problem-solving process involving analysis, pattern finding, abstraction and algorithmic design. Students use these processes to develop programmes to deal confidently with complex and open ended problems.
Students who learn computing can apply the thinking skills across the curriculum and begin to see a relationship between subjects as well as real life applications beyond the classroom. For example, they may use their skills to figure out the rules for binomial expressions, map the entire human DNA experience or analyse a poem in the study of metre and rhythm, tone and diction.
Design Studies
The DS course equips students with knowledge and skills of the design field through design thinking, design process and fundamentals of three design disciplines: visual communication design, interior and exhibition space design, and architectural design. The course aims to nurture an awareness and appreciation of the positive relationships among design, humanity, art, technology, business, culture and economic development. As such, it cultivates an awareness of the role of design in shaping one’s experience of visual communication, space, objects and the environment.
Students will develop creative and innovative mindsets, critical thinking and analytical skills through design activities; and acquire the ability to critique design works and generate creative design solutions. Students will also acquire competencies in visual and oral expression and communication, as well as digital design techniques for presenting design concepts. Design projects foster students’ responsibility, confidence and sense of efficacy.
Electronics
The Electronics course aims to equip students with a sound understanding of basic electronics and provides ample opportunities for students to hone their creative and problem solving skills. Topics include fundamentals of physics and electricity, types of resistors, voltage and current sources, Network Theorem and analysis, capacitors, light emitting semiconductors, sensors, output devices, bipolar junction transistors and project management.
Students will experience learning through practical application of electronics to the design of authentic gadgets and products. Examples include the building of a transistor organ, rain detector, sound activated ballet dancer, universal electronic timer, heat sensor, line-follower robot, and two-way electronic intercom system.
