The Erasmus+ AI4PPP (AI for People, Planet, and Profit) project has successfully completed the piloting phase of its educational modules, marking an important step forward in artificial intelligence (AI) education. Project Result 5: Module Piloting and Improvement demonstrates the effectiveness of these modules in real-world settings, providing valuable insights into how AI training can be enhanced and tailored for diverse audiences.

Key Findings from the Piloting Process

AI4PPP project partners – teams from the School of Applied Social Sciences in Slovenia, the University of Alcalá in Spain, and Algebra University College in Croatia participated in Project Result 5 by running the piloting process. The piloting process involved implementing AI learning modules across various environments, including higher education, workbooks, and face-to-face training sessions. The goal was to assess how well the educational materials function in practice and identify areas for improvement. The findings revealed several important trends:

  • Increased Interest in AI: Following their participation in the pilot, students expressed a strong interest in applying AI solutions within their own fields of expertise. This enthusiasm suggests that AI education can inspire professionals across industries to explore AI’s potential for transforming their work.
  • Enhanced Engagement: Facilitating lecturers observed a noticeable boost in student motivation when engaging with AI-related content. The modules sparked curiosity and encouraged active participation, signalling a successful alignment between the course materials and the needs of learners.
  • Positive Perception of AI: A major objective of the pilot was to familiarize participants with AI technologies and their applications. The results showed that students developed a favourable view of AI, recognizing its potential to improve business efficiency and streamline processes. Many participants also began considering how to integrate AI into their own areas of work.
  • Practical Application: One of the standout successes of the pilot was how students and professionals alike were able to apply AI concepts in practical settings. Whether through simulations or real-world case studies, participants demonstrated an ability to grasp AI methods and think critically about their implications for industry and management.

Impact on AI Education

The pilot process not only validated the effectiveness of the AI4PPP educational materials but also highlighted areas where AI training can be further improved. By testing the modules in a variety of settings, the project was able to refine its approach to ensure the materials are adaptable and relevant to a wide range of learners, from technical experts to those new to AI.

The insights gained from this phase emphasize the importance of integrating AI into diverse educational programs, beyond just computer science. Participants from industries like healthcare, human resources, and hospitality demonstrated a growing understanding of how AI can enhance decision-making and operational efficiency in their sectors.

The full Project Result 5 report can be accessed here.