From Consumers to Contributers – Building Student Communities Through Innovation and Sustainability

Abstract

In our efforts at Studenterhuset in Copenhagen, our primary focus lies in fostering communities, promoting engagement, and establishing Copenhagen as the premier city for students. We particularly emphasize support for first-year students, with a special focus on aiding international students in acclimating to their student life in Copenhagen. Our journey commences by delving into the pivotal concept of “the common third” — a shared interest that serves as a catalyst for first-year students to unite in communities. The presentation will showcase successful examples of how Studenterhuset effectively employs “the common third” to generate student interest and cultivate a secure environment, centered not on the challenge of making new friends but on a shared interest and the eagerness to contribute. This approach not only addresses the issue of student participation and engagement but also activates them as volunteers and contributors. An example highlighted in the presentation is the annual 4-day case challenge, Open Innovation Circularity. This collaborative initiative involves four educational institutions: the University of Copenhagen, the Danish Technical University, and the Copenhagen Business School. Open Innovation Circularity facilitates community building by nurturing shared interests among students and fostering interdisciplinary teamwork. These communities not only serve as platforms for personal and academic growth but also as incubators for diverse perspectives and collaborative problem-solving. The presentation will offer practical insights into creating inclusive and welcoming communities that encourage commitment from all members. By instilling a sense of belonging and purpose, these communities become fertile grounds for cultivating innovative thinkers and contributors to sustainable practices. Additionally, the presentation will explore strategies to motivate students to actively contribute. Open Innovation Circularity is strategically held in late September, aligning with the arrival of new students to Denmark while still early enough for first-year students to seek new networks and a sense of belonging. Despite the temporary nature of the Open Innovation Circularity community, lasting friendships are formed, providing support to students in finding similar communities either within Studenterhuset or on the campus. Join us for a dynamic exploration into the transformation from consumers to contributors, guided by the principles of voluntary engagement and focus on “the common third”. This has the potential to redefine the landscape of first-year communities, paving the way for a future where collaboration, sustainability, shared interests, and active participation become integral to the student experience.

Key take aways

Presenters

• Ellen-Margrethe Dahl-Gren, Studenterhuset in collaboration with University of Copenhagen, Denmark