Press releases of Europa-Universität Flensburg (EUF)

The joint project AILiSH@DLC-FL (Artificial Intelligence Literacy and Computational Thinking in Schleswig-Holstein) takes a participatory, empowering, and inclusive approach to AI education. Located on the shared campus of EUF and HSFL, the new learning spaces offer teachers, school classes, staff, and interested members of the general public hands-on opportunities to explore and engage with artificial intelligence and algorithmic thinking. Meanwhile, NORDAKADEMIE teams will operate primarily as mobile units, visiting schools and businesses throughout the region to bring AI learning directly to the people.

In his address, State Secretary Guido Wendt emphasized the importance of the initiative: “The Digital Learning Campus is a key part of our strategy to position Schleswig-Holstein as an innovation leader. By offering diverse forms of AI training, we are equipping people to actively shape the digital transformation.”

The Flensburg site of the Digital Learning Campus features a range of modern learning spaces. EUF hosts the "CreAItive Lounge" and "CreAItive Space," while HSFL contributes its established "FabLab IDEENREICH." NORDAKADEMIE adds further offerings through its own facilities and mobile learning units, focusing especially on southern Schleswig-Holstein.

"The Digital Learning Campus opens up a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can directly experience digital transformation," explains Prof. Dr. Christian Filk, project spokesperson. “Our goal is not only to share knowledge about AI, but also to empower people to critically engage with these new technologies.” The project will run from July 2024 to June 2029.

The DLC hub offers targeted programs for each of four main groups:

For teachers and future educators
AILiSH@DLC-FL prioritizes teacher training at all three stages, from university studies through student teacher internships to continuing professional development. "We offer workshops on integrating AI assistance tools into teaching and work with educators to develop didactic concepts for teaching with and about AI," says Prof. Dr. Filk. Hands-on programs include "Train-the-Teacher" formats, AI ambassador training, and modular continuing education courses that can lead to certifications or microdegrees.

For pupils and school classes

Groups from all types of schools can access introductory and engaging materials on AI and computational thinking. In HSFL’s FabLab IDEENREICH, for example, pupils can experiment with robotics kits and explore creative processes powered by AI. The project’s hands-on "maker education" approach helps young people engage with cutting-edge technologies in a low-threshold, approachable way. Vocational schools can access additional industry-specific offerings tied to relevant trades and professions.

For businesses and staff:
"The digital transformation and the integration of AI are set to impact virtually every profession," notes Prof. Dr. Michael Schulz, sub-project lead at NORDAKADEMIE. The program especially targets the region’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Offerings range from basic training on AI concepts to industry-specific workshops and tailored upskilling for professionals and managers. A special highlight is the project’s AI skills framework, which helps businesses identify their training needs and develop suitable learning pathways for their staff.

For the general public:
All learning spaces are open to the public. The project aims to demystify AI and give everyone easy access to these future technologies.
Public events such as “AI Discovery Days,” creative workshops, and panel discussions invite community members to try out AI tools and critically reflect on their impact. In partnership with regional organizations, additional events will be offered beyond the campus to engage citizens where they are.

EUF President Prof. Dr. Christiane Hipp has highlighted the initiative’s impact on teacher education: "AI will shape the classrooms of tomorrow, so it’s essential that future educators understand both the opportunities and the challenges these technologies bring—and learn how to use them in everyday teaching."

“As part of this dynamic initiative, AILiSH allows us to contribute our technical expertise in AI, applied computer science, and immersive technologies” adds HSFL President Prof. Dr. habil. Sven Tode. "Our aim is to make AI accessible and understandable to people of all ages and backgrounds through interactive formats, intuitive VR/AR applications, and our redesigned AI experience hub at FabLab IDEENREICH."

NORDAKADEMIE brings its close ties to the business community. "Our dual and part-time study programs allow us to incorporate real-world company needs directly into our educational concepts," notes President Prof. Dr. Stefan Wiedmann. “Our focus on businesses and mobile offerings ensures that AI education reaches organizations across the entire state.”

The project combines tried-and-tested methods with new, innovative approaches:

• Human-Centered Development: Users actively participate in the design of AI tools
• Immersive Technologies: Virtual and augmented reality create memorable learning experiences
• Design Thinking: Creative problem-solving fosters innovation with AI
• Blended Learning: Combines digital and in-person formats effectively

"Digital empowerment is especially important to us," emphasizes Prof. Dr. Filk. "We want to enable people to use AI tools in an informed, critical, and socially responsible way."

A Future-Oriented Network
AILiSH@DLC-FL collaborates with a broad network of partners, including regional vocational training centers, the Institute for Quality Development in Schools (IQSH), the Flensburg Chamber of Skilled Crafts, DiWiSH (Digital Economy Schleswig-Holstein), and companies such as Jungheinrich, thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, and Getriebebau Nord. This extensive collaboration ensures that the developed educational programs are practical, relevant, and built for long-term impact.

AILiSH@DLC-FL collaborates with a broad network of partners, including regional vocational training centers, the Institute for Quality Development in Schools (IQSH), the Flensburg Chamber of Skilled Crafts, DiWiSH (Digital Economy Schleswig-Holstein), and companies such as Jungheinrich, thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, and Getriebebau Nord. This extensive collaboration ensures that the developed educational programs are practical, relevant, and built for long-term impact.