Pedagogy and Professional Development

Garment Kit Exchange Project 2.0: Expanding Industry Process Alignment

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Abstract

Apparel design programs prepare students for industry by teaching design, patternmaking, technical design, and garment construction, often through studio simulations. This study examines the ninth cycle of a long-running tech pack exchange project that uses Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) to mimic real-world apparel development and communication. Students often rely on familiar methods, limiting opportunities to meet industry standards or practice realistic communication. In this project, 24 students from two universities formed five teams to create shirt designs, patterns, and tech packs, which were exchanged to produce prototype garments using only the provided materials. Students recognized their simulated roles and how their decisions influenced final outcomes. Reflections showed that they understood how tech packs communicate with factories and the consequences of missing or unclear information. Although they met the design brief, students identified needed improvements and gained insight into miscommunication, assumptions, and the importance of clarity in professional practice.

Keywords: experiential, simulation, technical design, tech packs, communication

How to Cite:

Wahl, L. & Adams, M. K., (2025) “Garment Kit Exchange Project 2.0: Expanding Industry Process Alignment”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21425