A framework for designing and producing academic gowns for Technical Universities in Ghana

Abstract

The academic gown literature in Africa is limited due to a lack of research on design histories, philosophies, aesthetics, gown wearer perspectives, and framework for producing academic gowns for Ghana's technical universities. The study therefore sought to develop a framework for academic gown production for Ghanaian technical universities by investigating the design histories, philosophies, aesthetics, and perceptions of academic gowns. The study used expert and maximum variation sampling techniques to select 66 participants. Using an inductive approach and a qualitative research design, the study employed a multi-method data gathering strategy, and narrative analytical techniques were used for data analysis. The study revealed that technical universities initially hired gowns for academic ceremonies, but between 2000 and 2011, they started producing their own gowns incrementally due to high rental costs, identification issues, and income generation. While some designed and constructed their gowns in-house, the majority subcontracted to gown contractors. Institutions, apart from management, still hire gowns for members to supplement their existing collection and then rent out their own gowns to interested institutions. Whereas some institutions incorporate their philosophies into the gown designs to ensure corporate identity, others do not. The institutions often designed the gowns to be aesthetically pleasing, and the designs have expressive, political, sociocultural, economic, and emotional implications. 41.7% of participants were satisfied with their gown designs, 35.4% were dissatisfied, and 22.9% were somewhat satisfied, with 58.3% expressing a desire for improvement. Consequently, the study developed a seven-stage design framework after validating the five-stage framework, which is now suitable for gown design and production. Wearers value highly academic gown use for ceremonies, and customising them can enhance their identity and brand image. Therefore, academic institutions should adopt the framework for academic gown production. For research and educational purposes, technical universities should maintain detailed information about gown designs for research and educational purposes.