Implementing Sustainability in Textile Engineering Through Service Learning: A Case Study of the Sustainable Knitting Lab
Conference paper > Full Text · 2025
Authors: Anne-Marie Grundmeier, Mustafa Ertekin, Gözde Ertekin, Arzu MARMARALI, Manuela Brauning, Matejka Bizjak, Mirela Blaga, Zlatina Kazlacheva
7thInternational Instructional Technologies in Engineering Education Symposium, Türkiye, İzmir, International, Verbal, Full Text, 2025-2025, pp 30-39
Summary
<p>This study examines the implementation of service learning to integrate sustainability education into textile engineering curricula. Developed within the Erasmus+ TexUnite project framework, Ege University's Sustainable Knitting Lab engaged students in a comprehensive service-learning experience that combined theoretical knowledge of sustainable textile practices with hands-on production and community engagement. The project involved 17 students who participated in educational workshops on EU regulations for recycled materials, produced knitted scarves and gloves using recycled yarns, engaged in virtual international exchanges with Hochschule Albstadt-Sigmaringen (Germany), and contributed to community service through collaboration with +1 Down Kafe, a social enterprise employing individuals with Down syndrome. Pre- and post-assessment evaluations demonstrated significant improvements in students' sustainability awareness, environmental consciousness, and readiness to engage in sustainable practices. The project culminated in a public exhibition at Ege University Science Festival 2025, highlighting both student learning outcomes and community impact. Results indicate that service learning provides an effective pedagogical framework for developing sustainability competencies while fostering civic engagement and cross-cultural collaboration in textile engineering education.</p>