The Philadelphia Eagles Graphic Design team recently spent a day with fifth-grade members of the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab leading a career-connected learning experience focused on graphic design, branding and creative careers.
The visit supplemented the curriculum of a six-week early elementary course, Creative Sparks: Exploring Five Art Forms. Throughout the session, students are learning how skills and interests in art and design can translate into careers and exploring the role of graphic design within professional sports organizations.
The Eagles Graphic Design team shared examples of their work across posters, publications, marketing materials and other branded content. Students also learned about the history of graphic design within the Eagles organization, the evolution of its visual identity and how design is used to communicate with fans across various platforms. Each member of the team also shared his or her individual career journeys, giving students insight into why they pursued graphic design and the skills that have helped them build careers in the field.
“We had an amazing time at the TGR Learning Lab with the fifth-grade students teaching graphic design,” said Christine Dorn, Philadelphia Eagles Graphic Design Director. “It was our first time doing a workshop like this, and we would love to come back.”
Students had opportunities to ask questions and learn directly from professionals in the field. They also put what they learned into practice through a hands-on design activity. Using a Nike sneaker template, students created their own concepts using Eagles brand colors while considering elements of design, branding, marketing and visual storytelling.
For fifth grader Izzy, having the opportunity to meet professional designers and ask questions was a highlight of the experience.
“I really enjoy design, so when I heard designers were coming, I really lit up,” Izzy said. “Asking questions was the main part for me. I still have so many questions to ask.”
Izzy also shared his interest in creating his own design brand and line in the future, demonstrating how experiences like this can help students connect their current interests with future career possibilities.
Through career-connected learning opportunities, students at the TGR Learning Lab gain exposure to professionals, industries and career pathways while building skills through hands-on experiences.
By connecting what students are learning in the classroom with real-world careers, they can discover new possibilities and begin to see how their interests can develop into future opportunities.
Visit Philadelphia.TGRLearningLab.org to learn more about opportunities to empower students through career-connected learning opportunities at the Lab or in the Philadelphia community.
