In Phase 4 (Years 9–10), teachers support students to: apply technological knowledge and practices in increasingly complex authentic contexts. Drawing on New Zealand contexts, including te ao Māori and Māori innovation, students develop deeper understanding of how cultural perspectives, technological systems, and emerging technologies shape design and expand human possibilities. They investigate ideas through research, modelling, testing, and refinement. Students evaluate the impacts of technological change and weigh trade-offs between ethical, sustainable, functional, cultural, and user-centred considerations. They increasingly recognise the roles of technologists, innovators, designers, and makers in shaping the future. Through this, they take greater ownership of design decisions and develop fit-for-purpose outcomes that are responsive to people, place, and context.
