International teams design ideas for the future at the FHV

Key Takeaways

• International teams jointly developed future ideas for sustainable smart textiles
• The collaboration with Getzner Textil brought real challenges directly into the creative development process 
• Workshops, excursions and prototyping brought innovation to life in a practical way
• RUN-EU creates international learning experiences and connects students across national borders
• The FHV strengthens future skills such as creativity, teamwork and changing perspectives with numerous international programmes 

Speculative Design

The fourth edition of this program brought together students from various disciplines to look at central questions of our time from new perspectives: How can design and technology enable sustainable and regenerative lifestyles? Which systems do we need to rethink in order to become more sustainable? "The participants worked with speculative design methods, developed future scenarios and implemented initial prototypes. A process that consciously invites a change of perspective and expands creative boundaries," says co-organizer and FHV lecturer Natasha Doshi.

Getzner Textil as a partner

A special highlight was the challenge from Getzner Textil, which was presented to the students in the online phase of the course. The company's real-life challenge to explore future applications for smart textiles, e.g. in the areas of climate protection, agriculture, healthcare or architecture, was a very motivating and valuable experience for the students. "Thanks to Getzner for the inspiring collaboration. Projects like these show how valuable the exchange between universities, Business and Management and society is and how quickly new impulses arise when different perspectives come together," summarized Margarita Köhl, Head of Department Design.

Highlights of Future Explorations: 

• The tour of Getzner Textil offered a look behind the scenes of an internationally successful company that combines tradition and innovation and is actively working on sustainable solutions.
• Biomimicry workshop in Fohramoos with nature as a teacher. Students experienced how ecological principles can inspire new design approaches.
• Prototyping labs in the Department of Design made ideas tangible. Teams developed their concepts further, built models and tested initial solutions.

Future-proof skills

In addition to professional skills, the programme also strengthened the skills that are crucial in a globally networked working world: intercultural collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, curiosity and the ability to solve complex challenges together. "The positive response from students, lecturers and the challenge partner showed that Future Explorations creates a space in which international collaboration and sustainable innovation can be experienced," says Doshi. Margarita Köhl and Natasha Doshi are delighted that the next edition is already planned for spring 2027 in Finland.

FAQ: Studying internationally at the FHV

What is an Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program (BIP)?
An Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program combines digital collaboration with a short international presence phase on site. Students work together with international teams on current issues and gain intercultural experience without having to spend an entire semester abroad.

Can I gain international experience without a semester abroad? 
Yes, the FHV offers numerous opportunities to flexibly integrate international experience into everyday study life with RUN-EU, Erasmus+ short-term formats and international project weeks. These formats are particularly attractive for part-time students or students with families.

What are the benefits of studying internationally at the FHV?
International learning experiences strengthen language skills, intercultural competencies and international networks. Through the European university network RUN-EU and over 100 partner universities worldwide, the FHV opens up a wide range of opportunities for international projects, mobility and cooperation.

You can find all the information here: Study internationally | Study | FHV