Designing a European inter-university campus: Insights into end-user needs and expectations

The digital transformation of higher education is a key enabler of cross-border collaboration within European University Alliances. Virtual and blended mobility initiatives aim to facilitate international learning experiences by leveraging digital infrastructures. In this context, the Transform4Europe (T4EU) alliance has developed an inter-university virtual campus to support student mobility across its partner institutions. This study explores the needs and expectations of students engaging with the T4EU digital campus, focusing on its potential to enhance online and blended mobility. A qualitative research approach was adopted, with two focus groups conducted at the University of Trieste to gather insights into students’ experiences, preferences, and challenges. The study employs the Software Quality and Teaching-Learning (SQTL) framework to analyze key factors such as interoperability, accessibility, security, communication, learning and productivity. Results highlight the importance of social engagement features, seamless platform integration, and user-centred design in improving virtual mobility experiences. These findings offer insights that may support the ongoing refinement of digital campuses within European higher education, contributing to a more effective and inclusive virtual mobility experience.