My interest in the circular economy, fashion consumption, sustainability and how consumers behave has remained unchanged for over 20 years. As an academic, the role allows me to combine education and industry expertise to support students in their transition into the world of work.
Now leading a team of like-minded professionals, the ability to develop research and transfer knowledge within the subject community has increased. This opportunity allows us all to be recognised globally for our achievements and the outcomes fed back into the pedagogy of student learning.
My teaching philosophy prioritizes constructive learning through student-centred and inquiry-based approaches, where students are active participants in their own learning and are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and collaborate with their peers. I believe that learning is a dynamic and ongoing process that requires a supportive and inclusive environment that values diversity and fosters a growth mindset.
My research explores the intersection of fashion sharing and identity construction, examining how shared consumption practices can impact individual and collective identities. Using qualitative methods, I aim to understand how fashion sharing platforms facilitate new forms of identity expression and community building, while also considering their social and environmental implications.
My PhD research explored the concept of alternative consumption with a focus on sharing and the circular economy. A key aspect was how fashion consumers construct identities through engagement in sharing. The use of a simulation method provided a rich site for data generation, highlighting challenges consumers faced around ownership and self-image. What remains to be seen is if alternative consumption a niche practice or the start of a new wave of sustainable consumption.