Pedagogy and Professional Development

Across Screens and Cultures: Apparel Students’ Perspective on Sustainable Fashion Consumption from a COIL Virtual Exchange

---

Abstract

With growing environmental and ethical concerns in fashion, interest in Sustainable Fashion Consumption is increasing. In response, universities are integrating sustainability into curricula through approaches like Virtual Exchange, which fosters intercultural collaboration online. This study explored apparel students’ experiences with VE in the context of SFC, aiming to identify both opportunities and challenges. Data were collected through a post- VE online survey, guided by 6 open-ended questions exploring students’ perceptions of the SFC project and their overall experiences with the VE. A total of 92 students participated (20 from Saudi Arabia, 10 from Ukraine, and 62 from the U.S.). Using thematic analysis three themes emerged: (a) Bridging Perspectives and Navigating SFC, (b) Virtual Roadblocks, and (c) Expanding Digital Pathways for the Next VE. Findings highlight the value of VE in fostering global sustainability dialogue while underscoring the need for improved engagement strategies and digital tools.

Keywords: sustainable fashion consumption, virtual exchange, COIL, apparel students

How to Cite:

Tawfiq, W. A., Binhajib, A., Martinez, C. J., Karpova, E. E., Davidenko, I., Kemerly, T., Pashkevych, K. & Yatsenko, M., (2025) “Across Screens and Cultures: Apparel Students’ Perspective on Sustainable Fashion Consumption from a COIL Virtual Exchange”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 1(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21382