The push for change

Tom's comment on my earlier post and the revelation that he is writing from a student's perspective got me thinking.

The strongest push for change in design education is from students, and recent graduates, judging by the comments I've heard over the past five years from students at several institutions around the UK. The strongest resistance to change is from industry, oddly enough (or rather those most vocal in industry, like the guy who recently wrote to Creative Review and told students to stop writing and start drawing, because he doesn't need people who can think for themselves, presumably), and from educators who like to cosy up to industry at annual awards and end of year shows.

There is one graphic design course I know (not the one I work on now, I hasten to add!) that actually bans students from inviting parents and friends to their end of year private view, and instead sends invitations to "big names". No students get job offers or interviews at this show (in fact they are often criticised out of earshot), it's just a great big piss-up and ego massage for the staff, and a photo opportunity for the college. By 9pm you'll find the students in the bar down the road wondering why they spent all their money on hiring a central London gallery that will be emty for the rest of the week.

Sadly, while they're on the course they don't feel able to complain. When they finish they want nothing more to do with it. I don't blame them.