Changing perspectives: formative research at the Faculty of Clothing Design as a transforming mechanism of the textile and clothing industry in the city of Medellín

Abstract

This reflection is the result of teaching experiences in research training for clothing design, focused on the application of Sustainable Learning and Education (SLE). First, we give some context on the city and the faculty, concerning the issues and crisis also inherent to the global industry. Then, we analyse the SLE and the academic structure of the research area of the Clothing Design program from Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana; the courses, the Fashion, City and Economy study group, and the development of the monograph’s themes around sustainability in fashion to graduate as a Clothing Designer. We finish with some conclusions around the practice of SLE in formative training and the importance of a professional clothing designer, capable of changing processes and provide solutions from a sustainable approach.