The genesis and goals of GreenEdTech
Embracing sustainability through language technology
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and social inequality, the need for sustainable education has become more pressing than ever. The GreenEdTech project, a collaborative effort between academia and industry, is transforming the way we approach sustainability in education by harnessing the power of language technology.
Exfluency is proud to play a pivotal role in this transformative journey, bringing our AI and language technology expertise to the forefront of sustainable education.
In this article, we delve into the genesis and goals of GreenEdTech, exploring how this project is poised to make a significant impact on Denmark’s educational landscape and beyond.
GreenEdTech is an initiative aimed at integrating Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) into Danish schools (grades 7.-10.) through a digital learning platform running on secure GenAI and blockchain technology.
Funded by Innovationsfonden and led by Aalborg University, this project seeks to address the urgent need for sustainable education.
The genesis of GreenEdTech
GreenEdTech’s inception was driven by the pressing need to embed sustainability into the core of educational curricula. “We are so many actors, including industry, universities, and teacher education, all committed to making this transition,” says Rikke Magnussen, the project leader from Aalborg University.
However, GreenEdTech did not originate from a deliberate search for partnerships. Rather, it came as an opportunity that sought out its respective collaborators. “The opportunity came looking for us,” explains Flemming B. Gammelgaard, Exfluency COO and our project leader on the GreenEdTech project. This led to the formation of a strong consortium, including Aalborg University, CFU KP, Exfluency, and VIA University College.
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Developing ESD Design Principles and Educational Models:
GreenEdTech seeks to create research-based design principles and didactic models to facilitate the ESD transition in Danish schools. This involves integrating Citizen Science projects that enable students to work on real-world problems alongside researchers and professionals. -
Creating ESD Learning Platforms and Materials:
The project will develop a comprehensive learning platform and materials to enhance ESD in school programs. These resources will be available for subjects like Danish, science, and mathematics, ensuring that sustainability is woven into the fabric of education. -
Fostering ESD Collaboration Between Schools and Practice:
By supporting students in acquiring ESD competencies through real-world CS projects, GreenEdTech promotes authentic collaboration that contributes to building a sustainable world. "We want to empower students to take real action and see the impact they can make," noted a team member (Aalborg Universitet). -
Developing Tools to Assess ESD Competence:
The project will create and test innovative tools to evaluate students' ESD skills and competencies, ensuring that educational interventions have a measurable impact.
Language, AI, and Privacy by Design
Exfluency plays a critical role in the GreenEdTech project by contributing our expertise in language solutions and AI-driven technology. We are responsible for developing the technological aspects of the digital learning space, including integrating generative AI and language models to enhance the educational experience. “Our experience with AI and language technology brings significant value to this project,” explains Łukasz Kaleta, Product Development Manager at Exfluency and Product Owner on the GreenEdTech project. This includes developing AI-assisted workflows, advanced search capabilities, and content analysis tools that support the project’s educational goals.
Exfluency’s involvement also ensures that privacy and data security are maintained, particularly through the integration of secure login systems like Uni-Login, a system widely used in Danish schools. Our focus on privacy by design is crucial in creating a safe digital learning environment for students.
Project progress and implementation
As of now, our team is halfway through developing the project’s Minimum Viable Product (MVP). We aim to complete the platform in the fall. To refine the application, the project has engaged in iterative design sprints, workshops, and continuous testing with school groups. “It’s been a discovery journey, involving perspectives from students, teachers, and partners,” remarks Łukasz.
The upcoming testing phase will involve real-world scenarios where selected schools will interact with the MVP to provide valuable feedback. “It’s not just about providing a technical tool to schools,” emphasises Flemming. “It’s about sustainability competencies and supporting teachers in using this digital learning space effectively.”
The genesis and goals of GreenEdTech underscore the project’s innovative approach to integrating sustainability into education through technology. While fostering collaborations, leveraging our expertise within the areas of language technology and generative AI, and always focusing on doing better business, we believe GreenEdTech is set to make a significant impact on Denmark’s educational landscape.
Stay tuned for the next article, which will delve into the technological innovations driving this project forward.
