“Should I be doing this job?”
Why does it matter to me? Why does it matter to the world?
Through out the PGCERT I have questioned my suitability in a teaching role. In many ways I have avoided facing the proposed research question as result of fear (of finding other employment) as well as the benefits that teaching can provide this includes but not limited to time to work on my on design/ art/ illustration practice, motivated and inspiring peers, and access to resources.
I think the PGCERT is attempting shape and direct me in a specific way, one where pedagogic theory and practice takes precedent over design practice, knowledge and experience. This for me has resulted in wider questions related to the relevance of design education today. Graphic design and illustration is one of the most democratic disciplines in that very few tools and equipment is required to make a piece of design. However, the landscape of commercial illustration is overflowing with image makers, and access to stock image websites (such as Getty) along with the advent of artificial intelligence has added a new layer of complexity for freshly graduated students. With that in mind, what is the purpose of design education now?
Although I have tried, many of problems I have identified during the PGCERT regardless of scale I cannot subscribe to or have no ambition to change. The nature of the course I teach on is very fast paced and we often have to be agile and reactive to problems in a very quick and immediate way. I have therefore been built in a way to make things work regards of the problem.
For many tutors teaching was not a first option for them and I believe the university has relied on designers to bring their experience to enrich the course as well as validating the subject matter taught in sessions. But are they the “right” people for the job? Who is the right person for the job? Why did I get my job?
I think this an important question to ask because it can help me make a more informed decision regarding my future, I can ask if I’m causing harm to myself and a student cohort by continuing this role. I hope to explore what is more important to design education the practice of design or the practice of pedagogy.
Research questions and key words
“Should I Be doing this job?”
Why have design education today
What is design education today
Where are you up to (taking stock)
I have only just decided on a research question.
How are you feeling about it? (Temperature check)
Pre discussion with Lindsey I was feeling frustrated at having little direction with the project and the ideas I had were un-stimulating or I felt they would be critically looked down upon. Post tutorial I have more confidence in the proposed question, but also feel the question is very exposing and puts my in a position of vulnerability that I’m unsure of how to navigate.
What do you need to know more about? (Knowledge formation / concept mapping)
What reading is relevant and suitable to my area of interest,
How I might conduct the researching (Initial suggestions include journaling and speaking to peers)
Observation of other tutors?
Reflective entries on my taught sessions
How do I ensure I protect myself but can speak to my peers in an honest and open way
How do I avoid turning this into a rant and keep on track
Where is the university ethos / philosophy moving to?
Students: what is their expectation?