Professional development and identity were prevalent within the data as the driving force of engagement – this was surprising. I had assumed incorporation of student identity and ‘fun’ in the classroom would entice students but instead it was the act of learning that did so. This may explain the low interest in the study, as I had focused on the exploration of culture as the main selling point. When asked about sentimental items, topics of professional progression, identity, self-image and confidence appeared, further showcasing students need for professional progression. The topic of community did appear but was not as prevalent as professional practice. The artefact was merely an avenue to learning.
A mixture of methods were illustrated for problem solving: visualisation, process-based and segmented (unconnected process’). However, overall learning requests surrounded segmented learning. Participants listed individual tools as their take-away from the session, illustrating better information retention from bite sized learning. Considering some of the participants have only been exposed to digital production software for one unit, this demonstrates students need to for independent learning, working to problem-solve using lateral thinking.
So what happens from here?
It is clear that more work needs to be done around digital studies, both within the department and pedagogic community. With such a small research pool it is hard to say whether this study is representative of the entire cohort. When developing this study I struggled to find research that investigated these elements and instead relied on educated guesses. This resulted in a less informed approach and may have contributed to low participation. In hindsight utilising knowledge from fellow peers and students would have strengthened this investigation. Nevertheless, further discussion and exploration within the department can help to develop strategies to support minority students and attain sustained engagement to digital studies. Furthermore, I will continue searching for research around digital studies, within less conventional platforms, to aid in the development of digital pedagogies within UAL.