An authentic need or opportunity is meaningful to the student and has:

• a real benefit, purpose and use
• a real user who can provide feedback on design ideas and developments
• real limitations such as time, money, materials, equipment
• a real context influenced by specific social, ethical and environmental issues.

Questions to consider

• Is there someone in the community, such as a local preschool or childcare centre, who may have a product need?
• Is there a local event or similar opportunity arising in the community to develop a product?
• Is there an abundance of resources, for example, seasonal food or leftover materials, available to be used?
• Is there local expertise, such as an architect, textile artist or craftsperson who is keen to help?