Forging Connections: The Role of Peer Interaction in Shaping Technical Skills and Motivation in Jewellery and Metalsmithing Education

This research examines the influence of peer interaction on the development of technical skills and motivation among students of jewellery and metalsmithing in Ghana. Grounded in the principles of hands-on craft education, jewellery and metalsmithing require precision, creativity, and ongoing practice, which makes collaborative learning particularly important. Utilizing Sociocultural Theory, the Community of Practice framework, and Self-Determination Theory, this study investigates how peer learning environments affect skill acquisition, creative growth, and intrinsic motivation. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional descriptive design was utilized, incorporating survey data from 64 students at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were subjected to thematic analysis to capture the nuanced experiences associated with peer learning. The findings indicate that peer collaboration significantly enhances technical competence, especially in techniques such as soldering, stone setting, and milling, with 82.8% of participants acknowledging its positive impact on skill development. Motivation was also notably improved, as 87.5% reported increased confidence due to peer feedback, and 90.6% indicated that collaborative environments encouraged longer studio engagement. Identified challenges included variations in skill levels, communication barriers, and unequal participation; however, students suggested enhancements such as structured critique sessions, mentorship, and improved resource availability. The study concludes that peer interaction is essential for achieving technical mastery and fostering artistic motivation in jewellery and metalsmithing education. It underscores the necessity for supportive and structured peer learning frameworks to optimize both skill development and creative persistence within specialized craft disciplines. Keywords: Collaboration, Peer, Jewellery, Motivation, Skill, Development.