What are some current and future trends in textile education and training?

3 Textile design trends

A third aspect is to enhance the artistic and aesthetic qualities of textiles. Textile design refers to the process and outcome of creating patterns, colors, textures, and shapes for textiles, as well as the selection and combination of materials and techniques. Some of the current and future trends in textile design include multicultural and global influences, customization, storytelling, emotional and experiential design, and co-design and participation. Textile education and training programs are offering these topics as electives or specializations, as well as encouraging students and professionals to develop their own style as textile designers.

4 Textile digitalization trends

A fourth aspect is to leverage the potential of digital technologies for textile innovation, sustainability, and design. Textile digitalization refers to the use of digital tools and methods for textile creation, production, distribution, and consumption, such as computer-aided design (CAD), digital printing, e-commerce, social media, and virtual reality. Some of the current and future trends in textile digitalization include digital fabrication, digital archives and collections, digital storytelling and marketing, digital learning and teaching, and digital communities and networks. Textile education and training programs are adopting these tools and methods as part of their infrastructure, in addition to providing support for students and professionals to use them effectively.

5 Textile education trends

Besides the specific trends in textile innovation, sustainability, design, and digitalization, there are also some general trends in textile education and training that affect the way they are delivered and accessed. Some of the current and future trends in textile education include online and blended learning, lifelong learning, competency-based learning, project-based learning, and interdisciplinary learning. Textile education and training programs are adapting to these trends by offering flexible and diverse modes of delivery, catering to different needs and preferences of learners, and focusing on learning outcomes and skills. They also facilitate hands-on and real-world experiences, and collaborate with other disciplines and sectors.

6 Textile training trends

Finally, there are some trends in textile training that are specific to the professional development of textile practitioners. Some of the current and future trends in textile training include micro-credentials, mentoring and coaching, peer learning and feedback, industry engagement and networking, and entrepreneurship and innovation. Textile training programs are responding to these trends by offering short and focused courses or certificates, matching learners with mentors or coaches, and creating opportunities for peer interaction and evaluation. They are also connecting learners with industry experts and employers, and fostering entrepreneurial and innovative mindsets and skills.