Current practice in fashion design education: a review of global perspective

Abstract

The rapid evolution of the global fashion industry requires a parallel transformation in pedagogical strategies. To address this need, this paper presents a systematic literature review and thematic synthesis of global pedagogical practices and theoretical frameworks shaping fashion design education. In this study, the term theoretical framework refers to a conceptual, pedagogical model that explains how learning, creativity, design, and innovation occur within fashion education. In this research, these frameworks are not viewed as abstract theories but as applied models that connect educational philosophies with real-world teaching and learning. A systematic search of recent literature was conducted across major academic databases, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and Research Rabbit, using Boolean operators. This resulted in an initial pool of over fifty studies. Fifteen core research papers were then selected through backward snowball sampling based on citation relevance published between 2014 and 2024. Thematic synthesis of these studies identified sixty-seven theoretical frameworks, thirty-eight of which were categorized under six themes: Teaching and Learning Approaches, Creative Design Processes, Cultural and Aesthetic Perspectives, Sustainability and Ethics, Technology Integration, and Entrepreneurial Pathways. The review concludes that the future of fashion education lies in adaptive and hybrid models that integrate these diverse yet interconnected competencies. The findings reveal the emergence of hybrid, value-driven pedagogical models that incorporate sustainability, technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship to enhance the future readiness of fashion education. Ultimately, this synthesis and cross-contextual comparison provide a strong foundation for educators and policymakers, offering insights for adapting these global practices to guide curriculum development and pedagogical innovation within the Sri Lankan context.