INVESTIGATING CHALLENGES IN PATTERN MAKING FACED BY CLOTHING AND TEXTILES STUDENTS IN TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS IN THE VOLTA REGION OF GHANA

Abstract

Pattern making is a critical skill in the field of clothing and textiles, forming the foundation for successful garment design and production. This study explored the challenges faced by students in pattern making in technical and vocational schools in the Volta Region of Ghana. The research employed a mixed-methods design, incorporating surveys and semi-structured interviews with fifty-five respondents which comprises a mix of both students and instructors, selected through a combination of purposive and systematic sampling methodologies. The study found that, students possess a higher level of familiarity with pattern making approaches compared to their overall expertise on the subject matter, and that a significant proportion of the students exhibit competency in pattern drafting. However, their level of competence in this area is relatively insufficient, suggesting the necessity for further efforts to enhance the students' skills and competences in pattern drafting. In addition, the study found that a considerable proportion of the students exhibited a deficiency in the technical aptitude necessary for precise pattern drafting. Based on the findings, the study recommends the establishment of a stronger collaborative partnership between industry professionals and academics in order to critically evaluate and enhance the curriculum for pattern making courses. The partnership should aim to guarantee that the curriculum encompasses a wide array of pattern making procedures, encompassing both fundamental and intricate issues that students may potentially face.