Research projects

The logistics sector requires highly qualified profiles. These profiles do not yet exist, which means companies have to train new employees first, consuming a lot of time and money.                                                                                                   

Within STEAMhive II, Howest provides support to organizations that organize extracurricular STEM activities through Mind-and-Makerspace (MAM) and Industrial Design Center (IDC). The project team aims to inspire and facilitate through various activities.                           

From the Level-Up project, a follow-up initiative has been established, aimed at professionalizing teachers of the 3rd grade in secondary education focusing on the labor market and double finality, enabling them to enhance digital competencies and data literacy of their students.

Reading comprehension is a crucial skill for students. The primary objective of this project is to enhance the reading proficiency and enjoyment of students in vocational-oriented programs. To encourage them to read more, the Close Reading methodology will be employed.           

Gen Z (individuals born between 1995 and 2009) is the future – as citizens, consumers, and employees. However, Gen Z keeps their cards close to the chest.                                                                                                                              

In this project, the prototype of the VR training (developed in the PWO SPRINT EDU XR) is optimized and expanded. This VR training is aimed at secondary school students (vocational orientation) learning to operate complex woodworking machines.                                     

The success of online shopping, coupled with the recent impact of COVID, is putting pressure on Flemish retail and the retail sector. This has direct consequences for store owners, who must reorganize themselves as pickup points for online shoppers or even close their stores.    

Media outlets in Flanders are facing challenges in capturing the interest of Gen Z in news. They seem to be losing connection with young audiences. NewZ Lab is exploring possibilities to engage this demographic. It focuses on the current media consumption habits of young people.