Member Spotlight: Rory Johanson

Rory Johanson is an experienced Design and Technology teacher who joined the DATTA Qld committee in 2023 after attending his first DATTA Qld conference. He has taught a range of subjects in different states and school systems, which has given him a broad perspective on Design and Technology education. Rory is passionate about providing engaging and effective learning experiences for his students, and he shares his expertise and resources to support other teachers in the field.

In his role with DATTA Qld, Rory plans and facilitates the ‘Teach Meet’ program and is committed to staying at the forefront of curriculum developments and supporting the growth of the Design and Technology subject area. Rory enjoys a variety of creative outlets, including woodworking projects and playing music with his friends. His diverse experiences and dedication to the field make him a valuable asset to the DATTA Qld committee.

How long have you been a Design and Technology teacher and what schools have you worked in?

After starting my teaching career as a Film, Television and New Media teacher at Marist College Ashgrove, I moved to Brisbane State High School where I taught the same subject for many years. In 2020, I relocated to Sydney, where FTVNM was not offered as a subject. Drawing on my prior teaching experience and background as a tradesman, I was able to adapt and begin teaching Design and Technology in the HSC system at Moriah College in Bondi Junction. When I returned to Brisbane in 2023, I took on the role of Department Head for Design and Technology at Clairvaux MacKillop College in Upper Mt Gravatt.

What inspired you to become a Design and Technology teacher?

I started teaching later in life, motivated by the positive impact that education can have on students and their communities. Teaching Design and Technology provides me the opportunity to empower students to become active, socially-conscious designers. By equipping them with the necessary content knowledge and skills, I aim to inspire students not only to envision a better global future, but to actively work towards realising that vision through their design work. This ability to catalyse meaningful change is a great source of motivation for me as an educator.

Seeing students go on to realise their aspirations is probably the thing that gives me the most pride.

what is your most memorable or proudest moment from your teaching career?

I have gained recognition through various awards and professional development programs. One particularly rewarding experience was participating in the Advance Queensland Community Digital Champions program, which provided valuable networking opportunities and allowed me to develop new skills in both school and community settings. I’m also proud of the research I conducted for my Master’s degree, which explored innovative ways teachers around the world were leveraging technology to deliver engaging, effective instruction during the COVID-19 lockdowns.

At Clairvaux MacKillop College, I’m currently spearheading the development and implementation of a new workshop safety procedure, which I’m quite proud of as it aims to improve the wellbeing of both students and staff. However, the achievements that fill me with the greatest pride are seeing my students go on to realise their aspirations. Recently, a group of Year 12 Design students were recognised for their nuanced use of empathy in a human-centred design assessment focused on assisting people with disabilities. Moments like these, where I witness my students making a positive impact, are the most rewarding part of my work as an educator.

What resources or advice do you recommend or have to help Design and Technology teachers deliver high-quality, engaging, and effective education to their students?

The most effective teaching strategies will depend on the unique context of your school and where it is on its educational journey. As a starting point, I recommend becoming a QCAA confirmer or endorser, and seeking opportunities for external marking – these experiences provide invaluable insights into the subject. Personally, I’ve found that a breadth of experience has been the key driver of my knowledge. Transitioning between different school systems, teaching subjects, and even states has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and approach curriculum delivery from new perspectives.

For example, moving from the HSC Design and Technology curriculum to the QCAA Design syllabus required me to rethink how I teach the design process. Whereas the HSC emphasises a single, comprehensive design project with an 80-page portfolio, the QCAA framework focuses on students engaging in the design cycle through multiple rational actions. Understanding the merits of these divergent approaches and leveraging their strengths has significantly informed my teaching practice. This is a topic of considerable debate in the UK at the moment, and I’ve been closely following the research emerging from there to ensure my department and school remain at the forefront of Design and Technology education in Queensland.

Here are some of the resources I visit to keep an eye on what’s happening.

Research and PD

Resources

Engineering – Design and Technology

News

What do you enjoy about being involved as a committee member with DATTA Qld?

I like that we’re able to support the curriculum area and those involved in teaching the whole suite of subjects in our area. I spend a lot of my time planning for the future in my current role; so, having a handle on how things are being done well across the state, what’s coming that could shake things up, and what’s coming that could provide exciting opportunities interests me greatly.

What advice would you give to someone considering joining the DATTA Qld committee? Why should they volunteer their time?

It is mutually beneficial; however, I get so much out of being involved. I get to have amazing discussions with the other committee members and association members on a regular basis and get to be involved in events that add benefit to our roles and our subjects’ profile. It keeps me thinking, keeps me current and keeps me connected to a greater community of Design and Technology teachers who want to share and are in it together.

What hobbies, creative outlets, or pastimes do you enjoy in your free time?

We recently acquired a new CNC router at work, so I’m eager to dive into some woodworking projects using that new equipment. While I used to coach basketball more extensively, these days I’m limited to supporting my school’s team and my son’s U10 squad. Every so often, I also get the chance to play some rock and roll music with my friends, and we even put out the occasional record together.

Thank you, Rory, for participating in the DATTA Queensland Member Spotlight and sharing your inspiring journey and valuable advice with fellow Design and Technology teachers. We encourage other DATTA Queensland members to participate in this series. If you would like to be featured or know a Queensland Design and Technology teacher who deserves recognition, please email us at membership@dattaqld.com.au.