Reflections from My Recent Marking Session: Shaping the Next Generation of Graphic Designers

After spending time marking student projects, I’ve come to realize a few important truths about developing and shaping young graphic designers. In the real world, they won’t always get to choose their clients or the jobs they take on, and we often discuss this when we create formative assessments. However, in their educational years, it’s crucial that we provide briefs they can connect with emotionally.

When students connect with their projects on a personal level, the difference in their work is remarkable. They spend so much time on these tasks that an emotional connection can drive them to invest more effort and creativity into their designs. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about tapping into what excites them, and when they care, they push their limits.

One of the things I’ve noticed is that illustration, once considered a foundational skill in graphic design, is no longer as critical as it used to be. Yes, scamps help them ideate, but with tools like Photoshop and Illustrator at their disposal, and a wealth of reference material online, they manage to deliver without heavily relying on traditional illustration. That said, it’s clear that the way we teach needs to evolve.

We are no longer just competing with traditional teaching methods. Our students have access to endless YouTube tutorials, online resources, and now generative AI. As educators, we need to embrace these advancements, but also push our students to find their unique style. While they can learn tools and techniques online, it’s our job to show them more—expand their horizons and help them develop a distinctive voice in a saturated industry.

This also means we need to do our part in understanding their world—where they find inspiration, how they engage with technology, and what matters to them. When we align our briefs and lessons with this understanding, we can give them more: more opportunities for growth, more space for creative exploration, and more reason to invest their passion into their work.

The next generation of designers is adapting quickly, and so must we, not just in what we teach but in how we engage with their creativity and the tools they use.