Pathways to graphic design practice: delivering / implementing / facilitating inclusive careers guidance to enable a diverse industry

The research project investigated BA Graphic Design students’ contemporary needs and concerns regarding guidance and preparation for a career in the creative industries. It explored L4–L6 students’ perceived barriers to entering the industry, gaps in professional knowledge and experience, and related individual lived experiences. The study’s resulting quantitative and qualitative data is enabling the course team to design a more inclusive professional practice curriculum that reflects their students’ diverse needs. Curriculum developments will focus on addressing 5 key areas of required support, that emerged from the findings – perception of the industry; exposure to professional experiences; tailored and practical advice; confidence building; developing networks. By collaborating with students, this research study is feeding the development, production, and implementation of a transparent, accessible and connected three-year student journey plan into practice, that intends to breakdown hegemonies within the creative industries and narrow associated employment outcomes gaps.

Other: numeric data (survey) + audio clips (workshop) + diagrams (workshop)

Surveys/Questionnaires; Interviews; Documents and Records