2 Introduction from the Vice-Dean Teaching & Learning “At FADA, student-centred teaching isn’t just a philosophy – it’s the heart of how we teach, learn, and grow together.” The year 2024 marked a pivotal moment for the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA) in re-establishing a clear, shared vision for teaching and learning. Since the lapse of our previous Teaching and Learning Strategy in 2019, the Faculty has undergone substantial transformation – most notably in response to the shifts brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. These changes required us to adapt rapidly, experimenting with diverse teaching modes and rethinking our pedagogical approaches. Emerging from this period, it became evident that we needed to capture the lessons learned and embed them into a forwardlooking, student-centred strategy. One that not only acknowledges the evolving needs of our students but also considers the broader ecosystem of people and processes that support their success. Student success is a complex and systemic issue – one that requires a holistic approach. In 2024, FADA initiated the development of a new Teaching and Learning Strategy, grounded in an in-depth review of both institutional processes and individual programme and module design. This strategy seeks to ensure that interventions are targeted, contextually relevant, and sustainable across the Faculty. The new strategy is underpinned by the ‘Five P’s’ framework: People, Place, Policies, Programme Structure and Process. It considers both the institutional perspective (UJ – FADA – academic staff) and the student journey (input – support – outcome), focusing primarily on undergraduate qualifications, while also accounting for postgraduate teaching where relevant. The foundation of this strategy lies in transformative teaching practices that are inclusive, decolonial, and Afrocentric – practices that reflect our commitment to nurturing the kinds of graduates who will shape the future of South Africa’s creative and cultural industries. A key moment in the development of the strategy was the Faculty Conversation held in December 2023. Staff from across departments engaged in meaningful dialogue around five central themes: Collaboration, conversation and shared practice; humanising our teaching environment; learning with and from one another; reconnecting with students and cultivating a positive student culture; creating spaces where students can truly flourish Teaching and learning is the core of our academic identity at FADA, and this strategy is a Faculty-led effort to reinforce our values, improve our practices, and strengthen our community of teaching and learning. Our shared goal is clear: to ensure that every student’s journey is one of belonging, purpose and growth—and that we as educators remain responsive, reflective and committed to leading beyond expertise. Professor Desiree Smal Vice-Dean Teaching and Learning
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