All SLN funded research projects were completed in August 2008. Project outcomes will be made available on this website in the near future

The aim of this research project is to investigate current industry practices and labour market information in order to increase our understanding of work-based learning in the fashion industry. The project will evaluate the experiences of students while on placement, and also the perspectives of employers supervising the learning experience. A minimum of two practitioner placements will be undertaken and documented by video over the summer vacation, to provide raw qualitative data and also an editable resource to show students within teaching sessions. A final multimedia resource is planned for 2008, incorporating video diaries, discussion forums and latest industry information, which will be used as a teaching tool, a notice board, and to support students in their personal development planning. An initial report of observations, along with a video diary will be available from October 2007.

Project Update, April 2008

To gain insights directly from students prior to undertaking a work placement, video and audio footage is currently being collated which provides the opportunity to look at issues such as industry awareness, confidence, and preparedness for placement.

It was initially proposed that students could record their placement experiences in a video diary format; however, this has proved problematic in terms of confidentiality issues within the workplace, and student technical know-how. Therefore, in order to collect regular student reflections whilst out on industrial placement, Northbrook fashion design students have been asked to contribute to a personal online blog using www.fashionspace.com. This use of eLearning/ web 2.0 technology is being piloted with the current cohort at Northbrook and will undergo separate evaluations within the institution, and also be reviewed against other courses and institutions that have adopted online reflective journals within the curriculum. Interviews conducted in small groups or 1:1 will take place when students return from placement.

The project leader will also visit students that are out on placement within the workplace, for a 1:1 tutorial. This tutorial will be audio documented for the purpose of data analysis and will offer the student and host company the opportunity to discuss both positive and challenging issues. It will also provide important qualitative data regarding industry perceptions of work related learning, and current labour market information that can be used in future curriculum development.

Contact: Catherine McConnell
Email: c.mcconnell@brighton.ac.uk