smartAInnovators: Promoting AI-driven Digital Transformation and Innovation in VET Schools for Social Change and Better Skills Match with the Labour Market(2022-2024) https://smartainnovators.eu/
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) is a collection of technologies that combine data, algorithms and computing power that allow machines to detect, understand, act and learn; either on their own or to augment human activities. Advances in computing and the increasing availability of data are, therefore, key drivers of the current upsurge that is changing the world and the lives of people. Thus, it is becoming the engine of growth of economies and organizations. Ranging from a simple Google Search, a conversation with Amazon Alexa or Google Home or Apples’ Siri, etc. the interaction with AI/ ML driven tools is evident. In other words, AI tools are becoming an integral part of many organizations, as it can help in many diverse areas. The followings are some examples in which AI can help: in the improvement of performance of public agencies, in their service levels and accountability, in developing solutions focused on the well-being of citizens, etc. among others.
Moreover, AI is a strategic technology that offers many benefits for citizens, companies and society as a whole, provided it is human centric, ethical, sustainable and respects fundamental rights and values. Evidence indicate that AI can contribute to finding solutions to some of the most pressing societal challenges, including the fight against climate change and environmental degradation, the challenges linked to sustainability and demographic changes, and the protection of our democracies and, where necessary and proportionate, the fight against crime. Hence, the digital transformation and modernization of VET is imperative to open up new routes and prospects for the next generations.
The smartAInnovators project aims to design, develop and pilot-test a comprehensive and ready-to implement smartAInnovators TOOL KIT. This tool set will support VET trainers/leaders to introduce the eco-system of AI technologies (supported with advanced digital skills, such as coding and Video Game Development) using unity engine in school curricula based on a multi-disciplinary STEAM oriented approach on real-life scenarios, which focuses on the use of DIGITAL INNOVATION for SOCIAL CHANGE.
The project foresees, in fact, the development of the following four main results:
- PR1 – the BLUEPRINT REPORT: in order to analyse the use and impact of artificial intelligence on education, citizens, business and public interest in which the following Project Results will be based
- PR2 – smartAInnovators TOOL KIT: the creation of a practical manual that will introduce AI technology and video game development in vet schools (directed to VET teachers and leaders)
- PR3 – smartAIinnovators virtual E- LEARNING ACADEMY: this part will be formed by the creation of a free platform, an exhibition or competition in which a group of selected students will participate; and a mobile app directed to students
- PR4 – EU smartAInnovator MAKERSPACE PACK: a place (real and virtual) created with the aim of educating students of the AI implications, especially in an effort to leave behind unfavourable behaviours such as gambling. In other words, the digital innovators for social change in action