Students think differently, and it is precisely this that leads to new and unexpected solutions
During PROTO Changemakers(opens in new tab), students from various vocational (mbo) and higher professional (hbo) programmes work on practical future-oriented challenges commissioned by companies and organisations. The research groups Networks in a Circular Economy(opens in new tab) and Energy Transition(opens in new tab) at Windesheim are also involved. Through an assignment on bio-based construction, they bridge the gap between research, practice, and education.
We spoke with senior researcher Anne from Windesheim about the role of the research groups during PROTO Changemakers. She is affiliated with the research group Networks in a Circular Economy and also works one day a week with the Energy Transition research group.
What is your role within the research group?
“In my work, I focus, among other things, on connecting the two research groups. A few years ago, we therefore initiated a crossover, in which we examine issues that cannot be resolved from a single discipline but instead require collaboration.
Our research is almost always demand-driven. We work closely with companies, municipalities, and other stakeholders. From this collaboration, concrete questions emerge, which we translate into research projects. Students play an important role in this, for example through graduation assignments or project work. In this way, we connect education, research, and practice.”
Why are you involved in PROTO Changemakers?
“Our participation aligns directly with the way we work: practice-oriented and in close collaboration with the professional field. The central assignment originates from a question posed by architects. They indicate that, while bio-based construction is promising in theory, it proves difficult to implement in practice.
On paper, it looks convincing, but in execution it is challenging to engage both clients and builders. A lack of familiarity with materials and a degree of uncertainty play a significant role. Once plans become concrete, bio-based solutions often recede into the background.
To address this, we explored what architects need in order to communicate their message more effectively. This led to the idea of a mock-up: something tangible that demonstrates how bio-based construction works. Not large or unwieldy, but compact and practical, so that it can be taken along to discussions with clients or contractors.
We then presented this question to students. They are given the freedom to shape it in their own way, for example as a physical mock-up or a visualisation, provided it helps to make the concept clear and tangible.
One of the architects is also present for a day during PROTO. This creates an exchange between research, education, and practice. It is precisely this combination that ensures the solutions developed here are genuinely applicable.”
What is bio-based construction and why is it important?
“Bio-based materials, such as hemp, straw, flax, and timber, absorb CO₂ during their growth and store it within buildings. This way, they directly contribute to mitigating climate change.
Additionally, bio-based insulation materials require less energy to produce and contribute to a healthier indoor climate. In that sense, you are effectively working in a carbon-negative way.
Although bio-based construction is sometimes perceived as more expensive, it offers many advantages, such as vapour-permeable construction. A building, as it were, ‘breathes’, reducing moisture-related issues. It provides greater comfort with lower energy consumption.”
What is your role during PROTO Changemakers?
“During the kick-off, I introduced the students to the principles of bio-based construction and outlined what we are seeking in this assignment. After that, they began working independently. I support them in clarifying their objectives and ensuring their ideas align with the practical question. For more technical matters, colleagues with a construction background provide assistance.”
What have the students developed in the end?
“The students have developed a wide variety of ideas. Almost every concept contained something interesting that we had not immediately considered ourselves. That is precisely what makes it so valuable.
For example, there was a playful game format that enables an accessible conversation about bio-based materials. There was also a mock-up of a wall construction, which allows for a very direct and visual explanation of how a bio-based structure is composed.
The ideas are not yet fully developed, but they provide a strong foundation for further work. The students have not only met my expectations but, in some respects, genuinely exceeded them. For me, the project has been a clear success.”
What makes working with students so valuable?
“Students bring fresh ideas. They are not yet constrained by established ways of thinking and are willing to explore alternative solutions. I am also very drawn to their energy. They are often open, creative, and intrinsically motivated. Many of them genuinely want to contribute to the world and recognise the importance of sustainability. That enthusiasm is infectious and makes collaboration especially rewarding.”
What do you hope students take away from this?
“I hope that students not only develop their creativity and learn to collaborate, but also gain a deeper understanding of bio-based construction. For many of them, this is their first encounter with it. If it inspires them and encourages them to engage with it further in the future, then I would consider it a success.
Ultimately, it is also about connection. That is exactly what makes PROTO Changemakers so strong: collaboration and connection between students from different disciplines, other educational institutions, researchers, and professional practice.”