Students at Forth Valley College in Wee County are breaking new ground with their graphic design skills by showcasing real client projects. This innovative approach, known as the Design Collective, is allowing students to collaborate with actual organizations in the local community, providing them with invaluable real-world experience.
Students’ Perspective
One of the students benefiting from this hands-on experience is Owen McArdle, a second-year HND Graphic Design student from Tillicoultry. Owen shared his excitement about working on live projects through the Design Collective, emphasizing how it has given him a glimpse into the dynamics of the professional world. He highlighted the importance of close collaboration with clients, quick turnarounds, and meeting deadlines, aspects that differ from traditional class projects. Owen described how the collective has enabled them to create designs for various purposes, utilizing techniques like printmaking, heat press, and photography. He expressed his pride in the progress they have made as students due to this enriching experience.
Lecturers’ Insight
Hannah Keba, a Creative Industries lecturer at FVC, praised the Design Collective as a groundbreaking initiative that allows HND Graphic Design students to apply their skills in a practical setting. She commended the students for their enthusiastic participation and dedication to producing professional-quality projects for clients. Hannah highlighted the diverse opportunities students have had to explore different avenues for monetizing their work, emphasizing the interactive nature of client relationships within this framework. She revealed plans to further develop the Design Collective into a sustainable business model, with ongoing efforts to secure funding for its expansion.
Impressive Collaborations
Since its inception, the Design Collective has collaborated with notable entities such as Community Schools 2008 Charity, Alloa Athletic FC, and the college itself, providing marketing materials and design solutions. These partnerships have not only enriched the students’ learning experiences but have also contributed significantly to the organizations they have worked with, showcasing the students’ creativity and professionalism.
As the Design Collective continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a testament to the power of experiential learning and community engagement in shaping the next generation of graphic designers. The fusion of academic knowledge with practical application is not only benefiting the students but also leaving a lasting impact on the local community. The Design Collective is not just a project; it is a testament to the potential unleashed when students are given the opportunity to step out of the classroom and into the real world.
