Lessons from design teaching in a time of technological change

  • Cyril Shing: Senior Lecturer in Design, Chelsea

Abstract

With the rapid development of digital design processes, students are encouraged to be self-taught, to self-explore to keep pace with these programmes. Alongside this, with the increasing cost in higher education, students are asking “what does learning mean to me today?” In this changing environment what possible forms of pedagogy could we adopt to help our student to see the value in our teaching?

In my teaching, creating a project that engages students in curiosity in their design discipline is key in design education. Projects that challenge students to think outside the box through their use of new technology could help them to build innovative products. More importantly students can take their own initiative to build their self-identity in their design disciplinary as well as progress their career development.

My presentation will use number of case studies and pedagogy research projects to present what I have discovered in my time in Chelsea. From the question of using community of practice theory in teaching practice to integrating entrepreneurship in current design curriculum. I will present my view of the key elements to create meaningful learning in our rapidly developing technological landscape and how this “roller coaster” journey continue sustains my passion in teaching and inspiring my students their learning.

Recently I have been awarded the teaching and learning fund for a project: Co-design Innovative Entrepreneurship Programme in Spatial Design I will also share how I get inspiration from my teaching for the success of this application.