MIT X FIT Remote Learning Hub

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) joined forces to create an innovative textiles workshop. The Advanced Functional Fabrics Workshop, which helps jointly with Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA), brings together engineering and design to create an interdisciplinary workforce of the future.

Due to the pandemic, the 2020-2021 Advanced Functional Fabrics Workshop had to be held remotely. This online format is particularly challenging for a subject such as textiles innovation which requires a tactile understanding of materials and constructions. In addition, one of the primary goals of this workshop is to bring together an interdisciplinary team of faculty, students, and industry practitioners to tackle complex problem solving through collaboration. This goal is also difficult to achieve in a remote learning environment.

Through research and a customized design sprint process derived from the design thinking methodology, the creative team explored new ways in which educators and students can better adapt to the remote environment and teach design and other similar creative subjects remotely.

The MIT AND FIT Remote Learning Hub is a new paradigm for teaching/learning platforms. Unlike traditional online learning platforms such as Blackboard, the Hub focuses on facilitating group activities, encouraging collaborative learning, as well as enhancing engagement and productivity through gamification.