Developing leaders for the future through art and design studios

Using formalised peer learning purposefully in studio is a way to strengthen the development of graduate attributes that industry has been calling for, for over the last two decades. Being able to communicate, work in teams, solve problems, use technology, as well as show initiative, be enterprising and manage self are most often recognised as critical to successful employment. Such attributes extend beyond disciplinary content, positioning graduates to engage in work futures that are increasingly globalised, diverse and complex. Implementing a year-long, formal peer learning project to develop and embed attributes in Art and Industrial Design programs provided an opportunity to explore a peer learning approach, consider outcomes and identify the critical aspects necessary for success. Important aspects were the endorsement and support from studio academics to assess peer learning in their courses, the use of an authentic peer learning task that is industry-relevant and purposefully integrated into the studio curriculum, and the adoption of a student-centred learning and teaching philosophy