L2 Design & Visual Communication

NCEA Level 2 Design & Visual Communication (2DVC)

Design and Visual Communication at Level 2 builds on the foundations of Level 1 and focuses on more advanced product and spatial design projects. Using student-centred design briefs, students extend their ability to conceptualise, develop, and communicate design ideas through a balance of traditional and digital methods.

Students will refine their skills in both freehand drawing and computer-based tools such as SketchUp, Twinmotion, Photoshop, Illustrator, and CAD software to produce professional and realistic design outcomes. They will develop the ability to create accurate 3D models, renderings, and digital presentations while also learning how to integrate physical model-making and manual drawing to strengthen their design process.

Visual communication at this level emphasises the effective communication of complex design ideas, requiring students to use a range of graphic and digital techniques to show detail, intent, and creative thinking. By integrating computers, students are able to produce higher-quality presentation graphics, animations, and design portfolios that reflect professional design practice.

Students will demonstrate understanding of, and skills in, advanced visual communication techniques, combining CAD, rendering, digital illustration, and presentation software with sketching and prototyping. Greater independence in decision-making and problem-solving is expected as students move towards producing a portfolio of work that communicates their design ideas at a professional standard.

“I chose DVC because I wanted a creative subject that also gives me real skills I can use in architecture, design or engineering later on.” - Y12 Kaipara College Student

“I like how DVC mixes creativity with problem-solving. It’s not just drawing; it’s thinking like a designer.” - Y12 Kaipara College Student

“DVC has helped me turn my ideas into real designs—I never thought I could make my sketches look professional until this course.” - Y12 Kaipara College Student

This is an excellent course to take if you are interested in careers such as Architecture, Industrial Design, Illustration, Graphic Design, Film or Gaming Design, or any other creative industry where digital and computer-based design skills are in high demand.

Curriculum Skills and Key Comptencies

Thinking

Students of Design and Visual Communication will:

• Use design thinking to explore, experiment, and solve problems.
• Consider multiple perspectives and cultural influences.
• Draw on design heritage and diverse voices for inspiration.
• Think independently and build confidence in generating ideas.
• Apply divergent thinking to take risks and innovate.
• Apply convergent thinking to refine and resolve design ideas.
• Value their own unique voice and background.
• Use design thinking for self-reflection.

Using Language, Symbols and Text

Students of Design and Visual Communication will:

• Develop visual communication skills to express ideas and narratives.
• Explore, generate, critique, and refine design ideas to strengthen visual literacy.
• Understand how design uses universal symbols and visual languages recognised worldwide.
• Apply visual communication systems such as drawing conventions.
• Gain fluency in design language, balancing aesthetics and function.
• Select techniques that best support improvement and progression of their design ideas.

Managing Self

Students of Design and Visual Communication will:

• Build skills in time management, resource use, and adaptability.
• Develop confidence to reflect on and commit to their ideas.
• Balance risk-taking with established procedures to achieve strong results.
• Take ownership of their processes, including curating design portfolios.
• Engage with diverse contexts and perspectives to refine awareness and challenge bias.
• Think on their feet, making decisions under pressure and using their strengths effectively.
• Integrate wellbeing and stress-management practices into their design process.
• Recognise how resilience and focus support innovative ideas and quality outcomes.

Relating to Others

Students of Design and Visual Communication will:

• Learn visual communication techniques to confidently present ideas to peers, whānau, communities, and potential users.
• Develop audience and user connections, translating solutions into valuable industry skills.
• Use critical inquiry and empathy to better understand and meet user needs.
• Connect with place and the whakapapa of the people they design for.
• Practise collaboration and critique, respecting and building on each other’s strengths.
• Engage with communities to form relationships and respectfully understand the places they design for.

Participating and Contributing

Students of Design and Visual Communication will:

• Use visual communication skills to connect ideas with people and place.
• Develop solutions that respond to others’ needs while considering social, cultural, and environmental impacts.
• Understand design as a cumulative process requiring sustained engagement.
• Value collaboration and teamwork as a source of new ideas.
• Recognise feedback and critique as tools for shared growth in a supportive learning environment.
• Build resilience and confidence by reframing mistakes as opportunities for reflection and improvement.

Careers and Pathways

This is an excellent course to take if you are interested in careers such as Architecture, Industrial Design, Illustration, Graphic Design, Film or Gaming Design, or any other creative industry where digital and computer-based design skills are in high demand.

There are benefits regarding the use of Instrumental Drawing and CAD software and Problem solving that would be beneficial in any vocational career.