Challenging thinking, creativity and problem solving. Art and design technicians’ conception of their role in Higher Education

What do technicians do? The idea of a technician as an expert in a technical area will be explained, as will the specifics of that technical expertise to the learning and teaching in Higher education. This study of technicians used a mixed methodology approach of survey, participant produced images, and participant self analysis to create a rich portrait of the art and design technicians view of their role in higher education.

The idea of technicians as artists came through clearly in the study, so the visual methodology was an effective form of expression for the staff. The study finds technicians view their role as supporting staff, students and events in traditional and virtual learning environments. Whilst many technical staff still disseminate their knowledge in a workshop environment, there is a growing use of virtual spaces as a platform for skills based learning. Technicians' also create learning spaces for staff and students through events, exhibitions of student work, and installing and maintaining technological infrastructure.