It is inevitable that with the rapid advancement of digital technologies, design education is being influenced greatly, particularly through the expansion of online learning and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Within a relatively short timeframe (which included the COVID-19 pandemic) there has been an accelerated transition to digital learning environments, exposing both opportunities and challenges in online graphic design education. While we are constantly shown that online tools offer potential for enhancing collaboration, participation, and feedback, it is important to remember that their effectiveness is dependent on accessibility, digital literacy, and educator preparedness. This research, grounded in qualitative narrative inquiry, investigates graphic design students’ experiences with online learning tools during emergency remote teaching (ERT). It examines key factors that influenced student success, including the pedagogical affordances of technology, psychosocial challenges, communication barriers, and disparities in digital access. While existing literature often highlights the potential benefits of technology in design education, the findings from this study emphasise that student experiences are deeply shaped by context – especially in regions facing economic and infrastructural limitations. This research contributes to the discourse on digital disruptions in design education by examining how online learning tools influence contemporary pedagogy. It highlights the need for intentional, context-sensitive integration of digital technologies. Furthermore, it is imperative that while we explore strategies to effectively integrate these technologies, we should strive to preserve core design principles. A key question being, “How can educational institutions reimagine design education to balance technological advancements with foundational design education?” Initial findings provide insights into the evolving relationship between digital learning tools and design education, as we emphasise the need for strategic implementation that will enhance learning without diminishing the essential human elements of creativity. By addressing some of these challenges, this study aims to inform future curriculum development and instructional design that align with industry advancements while nurturing creativity and critical thinking in the next generation of designers.