Finding your place: preparing creative students for industry

Abstract:

This case study describes the activities in an undergraduate unit that encourages student enterprise and employability. Its implementation relies on a more general understanding of ‘curriculum’ and this article presents an overview of this transferable course structure. By collecting and analysing data on industry, conducting market research and by approaching companies or organisations students would like to work for – that they aspire to be associated with – they gain a better understanding of their own identities and can direct their self-image in professional and group working environments. It is argued that this develops their confidence to become independent thinkers and original designers, working for their own ends.