Research projects

Research and Expertise Center Vital Cities identifies the principles of child and youth-friendly heritage through appreciative inquiry.                                                                                                                                                 

In this project, we will explore the potential of utilizing the River Leie as a heat source to efficiently and intelligently warm future buildings of Howest and the city of Kortrijk.                                                                                                  

The clinical (pediatric) ophthalmic practice is confronted daily with the limitations of available visual assessment and rehabilitation tools. Ophthalmologists consistently face challenges in obtaining reliable results from vision tests in children.                               

XR Factor aims to survey Flemish secondary schools with dual finality and/or labor market finality that have diverse XR expertise. To obtain a comprehensive overview, we also engage in conversations with external stakeholders involved in XR implementations in schools.            

The commuting system needs to be more sustainable. The proportion of cycling and public transport in commuting needs to increase. To achieve these objectives, the Commuting Fund has been established.The Commuting Fund will undertake various actions to attain these goals:         

For cities, keeping the energy bill affordable is a challenge. Howest is assisting Kortrijk city in this regard. Through pilot projects in Kortrijk Weide and Transfo Zwevegem, the Smart Technology Energy lab is developing a data architecture for smart control of energy systems. 

We collaborate with palliative care specialist nurses to develop escape games that will later be made freely available in the sector. These games offer an innovative way to interact, test problem-solving abilities, and face challenges.                                             

Through the deployment of a high-quality 5G network, the Westhoek becomes a true smart region. This aligns with the objectives of the integrated economic regional vision of the Westhoek, 'The Westhoek Impulse Plan.'                                                                 

Generative AI is currently experiencing a significant surge. AI enthusiasts see endless opportunities, while doomsayers predict the downfall of creative professions and disruption in education. This research focuses on the role of AI applications in the creative sector.