About Design & Communication Graphics
Design & Communication Graphics, more commonly known as DCG is the Leaving Cert equivalent of Technical Graphics. It is an exciting and dynamic subject which deals with the traditional areas of technical drawing and draftsmanship whilst exploring new topics such as computer aided parametric modelling and concept design. There is also a much greater emphasis on problem solving and freehand sketching in DCG than there was before. This subject is intended to improve the students’ graphics and visualization skills and their creative ability. The subject is designed to cater for all levels of ability by systematically stimulating and advancing the inexperienced and by developing and challenging the more able. Plane and descriptive geometry and applied graphics provides students with knowledge of essential graphic principles. It encourages students to solve graphical problems creatively by applying spatial reasoning and geometric principles and concepts, as well as selecting appropriate graphics in communicating ideas and solutions. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why chose DCG?
If you liked Technical Graphics then DCG
is the natural progression for you. DCG is a subject that compliments a host of
other subjects such as Art, Engineering, Maths, Applied Maths and Construction.
I didn't do Technical Graphics in Junior Cert. Can I still study DCG at Leaving Cert?Design & Communication Graphics is a follow on course from Technical Graphics. The principles learned in Junior Cert are expanded upon in Leaving Cert. It is the policy of the DCG department that students studying DCG should have the understanding of plane and solid geometry that Technical Graphics provides. Exceptions have been made on a case by case basis for students who prove themselves to be exceptionally motivated, mature and willing to work in an extra curricular capacity to study aspects of the Junior Cert Technical Graphics course
How is DCG assessed?
Design & Communication Graphics is divided into two main components for assessment:
What careers does DCG point towards?
The study of DCG will be of benefit to you if you want to progress to careers related to the following:
I'm not great with computers or sketching. Will I be able to do the Student Assignment?
Yes. You'll be taught Computer Aided Design from scratch. You'll also be shown techniques and tips on sketching, shading and rendering. Although you have most likely studied Computer Aided Design basics in Transition Year, it will be assumed that you have no previous knowledge of SolidWorks software and you will be taught as such.
I've heard that DCG is a lot of work, particularly the project. Is this true?
Design & Communication Graphics is a full Leaving Certificate subject and is as easy or difficult as any other subject. There is a considerable amount of work required to produce an excellent student assignment. The same can be said for other subjects with practical components. If it is a subject that you love, the student assignment won't feel like work.
There is also a lot to be said for potentially having 40% of your final grade achieved by January of 6th Year. If you are unwilling to put effort into DCG or think that you will coast through because you did very well in Technical Graphics then perhaps it may not be the subject for you. |