Influence of modern technology on Ghanaian indigenous pottery and fashion trends

Abstract

In Ghana, due to the social dynamics of modernization, there has been an increasing awareness among the population about modern ceramics and fashion owing to the influence of print and electronic media. This paper brings to light the effects of technology and the responsiveness of the ceramic and fashion industries in Ghana. The research design adopted for this study was a mixed-methods design. This design involves the collection and analysis of quantitative data followed by qualitative data to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research topic. The study adopted a stratified sample size of 105 out of a targeted population of 142 from three groups at Takoradi Technical University, Ghana. The study covered ceramic and fashion lecturers (15), ceramic and fashion students (35), and non-ceramic and fashion students (55). A structured questionnaire and interview guide were used to gather information. The questionnaire was subjected to a reliability test with Cronbach's alpha, and it resulted in a reliability coefficient of 0.82 (82%), which was above the recommended minimum of 0.7. The gathered data was analysed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 software and ATLAS.ti were used for data analysis. The study revealed that the availability and exposure to technologies in the twenty-first century have had a major influence on indigenous pottery and the choice of clothing in Ghanaian society. The collective evidence from the results also underscores the transformative impact of digital platforms and technology in shaping perceptions, practices, and preferences within the indigenous pottery and fashion domains. The paper recommended that the stakeholders in these creative industries strategically harness the synergy of social media and technological tools to enhance global exposure, foster economic growth, and ensure the preservation of cultural heritage.