L3 Design & Visual Communication

NCEA Level 3 Design & Visual Communication (3DVC)

At Level 3, Design and Visual Communication focuses on independent, self-directed product and spatial design projects. Students will develop and refine their ability to conceptualise, develop, and communicate complex design ideas, using authentic briefs that allow for creativity, innovation, and professional-level presentation.

Students are expected to demonstrate a high level of skill with both traditional drawing techniques and advanced computer-based tools. This includes CAD software, SketchUp, Twinmotion, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and other industry-standard programmes to produce fully resolved 3D models, rendered environments, digital portfolios, and presentation boards. Physical prototyping, model-making, and sketching are used in combination with digital tools to support design thinking and creativity.

Visual communication at this level emphasises professional presentation, technical accuracy, and the ability to communicate complex design details and intent clearly. Students will apply advanced visual communication techniques, such as detailed digital rendering, photorealistic modelling, and portfolio layout design, while also demonstrating strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

By the end of the course, students will produce a comprehensive design portfolio that reflects industry practice and demonstrates readiness for tertiary study or careers in the creative industries.

This is an ideal course for students considering pathways in Architecture, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, Interior Design, Landscape Design, Film and Gaming Design, or any other creative field where digital, computer-based design and communication skills are essential.

Curriculum Skills and Pathways

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 ideal course for students considering pathways in Architecture, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, Interior Design, Landscape Design, Film and Gaming Design, or any other creative field where digital, computer-based design and communication skills are essential.

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