Introduction
The Extended Essay (EE) is a chance to explore a subject you’re passionate about in depth. For students taking IB Design Technology (DT) — with first exams in 2027 — the EE offers an exciting opportunity to investigate real-world design problems while showcasing research and critical thinking skills.
But one of the hardest parts is getting started: What topic should you choose? The right topic can make your EE engaging, manageable, and high-scoring. In this article, we’ll share a list of topic ideas that work well in DT and explain how RevisionDojo’s IB Design Technology hub helps refine and develop them.
Quick Start Checklist for Good DT EE Topics
- Focus on a clear, researchable question.
- Keep it specific and manageable (not too broad).
- Link it to the design cycle or design principles.
- Include opportunities for primary and secondary research.
- Reflect on broader implications (sustainability, usability, innovation).
Strong Topic Ideas for IB DT Extended Essays
Sustainability & Materials
- To what extent can biodegradable plastics replace traditional plastics in food packaging?
- How effective are recycled materials compared to virgin materials in furniture design?
- What role can modular design play in reducing electronic waste?
Human Factors & Ergonomics
- To what extent do ergonomic principles improve productivity in student workspaces?
