Susan had a strong interest in exploring intercultural learning practices in the classroom and was fortunate to collaborate with Professor Jin Woo Kim from Konkuk University in Chungju, Korea, where together they developed a collaborative project with their first-year Interior Design students from The Wilson School of Design at KPU in Spring 2026. The partnership provided valuable cross-cultural learning opportunities and helped students broaden their understanding beyond their local context.
Students explored design research methods through mapping, sensory observation, and cultural storytelling. In teams, they documented and sketched their daily environments and compared social, cultural, and environmental perspectives with Korean students. Despite time differences and language barriers, students collaborated effectively and reflected on how the experience strengthened their awareness of cultural diversity and the relationship between natural, built, and historical contexts.
This project was featured on the media wall at Konkuk University’s Global Campus. She appreciated students’ hard work and dedication in engaging with a project that encouraged them to extend beyond their familiar boundaries.
I also valued this experience and the opportunity to share my experiences with faculty and would like to thank the Global Partnership Office at KPU for their support.
Susan Ju — Faculty, Wilson School of Design
Read more about COIL through the KPU website: Collaborative Online International Learning at KPU
COIL Student Projects:
