Authors:
Sylvanus Ametordzi, Cape Coast Technical University, Ghana
Folasayo Enoch Olalere, The Open University, United Kingdom, & Durban University of Technology, South Africa
Email: [email protected]
Published: August 25, 2025
https://doi.org/10.22492/ije.13.2.08
Citation: Ametordzi, S., & Olalere, F. E. (2024). Unearthing the Ideation Process Used by Graphic Design Students in Ghanaian Universities. IAFOR Journal of Education, 13(2). https://doi.org/10.22492/ije.13.2.08
Abstract
Design ideation is a critical early step in any design process to generate a large number of ideas that can be cut down into the best and most innovative ones to inspire better design solutions and products. This study seeks to unearth how graphic design students generate design ideas and the extent to which traditional analogue and digital tools are being used in the design process. Ontologically, the study assumes a subjective stance, and it is epistemologically constructive. Therefore, the research methodology adopted is qualitative, and the data collection methods are interviews and observation. The twenty-eight participants of the study were made up of twenty-four graphic design students and four lecturers from two universities in Ghana. It was discovered that during design ideation, students conducted research on design briefs; embarked on mind mapping; engaged in brainstorming; made pencil sketches and digital illustrations of selected ideas; and evaluated the ideas for final selection. Findings indicate that students predominantly depend on digital tools during idea development because these tools provide quick access to research information on design briefs, enhance design idea visualization and enable students to generate a greater volume of ideas. With the heavy reliance on digital technology in today’s design idea generation process, it is recommended that design ideation models should be developed to include digital idea exploration to depict the totality of the ideation process in a modern design perspective. The use of this digital model in design pedagogy will help produce graduates who meet clients’ and industry expectations.
Keywords
design ideation, design process, digital illustration, preliminary sketches