A Proud Moment: Finalist at the AI for Education Awards 2024

I’m pleased to share that I’ve been named a finalist in the Educator Empowerment category at the inaugural AI for Education Awards 2024. This recognition highlights the success of the “AI Goes to School” project, a pioneering initiative led by Digital Dalmatia and Split-Dalmatia County, with support from the Faculty of Science, Split.

The aim of the project is to help teachers introduce artificial intelligence (AI) into their teaching practices, making technology more accessible to students. Through the EDIT CodeSchool program, teachers receive personalized support, from basic AI concepts to advanced programming methods. This is done through a combination of in-person workshops, online resources, and ongoing mentoring.

The program offers different learning paths, so teachers can choose the best option for their learning style and schedule.

An important part of the project is the involvement of industry professionals, local authorities, academia, and teachers themselves in developing the training and curriculum. There is also a focus on collaboration through online forums and group projects, which encourages the sharing of ideas and promotes innovation.

To ensure the project’s quality and impact, we collect feedback from participants, conduct surveys, and assess performance regularly. Privacy and ethical issues are also taken seriously, with training provided to protect student data and maintain transparency.

“AI Goes to School” promotes creativity and critical thinking in teaching, encouraging teachers to develop new ideas and practices. The project makes sure AI tools are accessible to all students and provides the technical and financial support by Digital Dalmatia and Split-Dalmatia County needed to overcome barriers.

With strong partnerships and ongoing evaluation, the project is designed to grow and adapt, ensuring it remains effective and sustainable over time. This comprehensive approach to teacher development aligns perfectly with the Educator Empowerment Award, as it supports ongoing learning, ethical standards, and inclusivity.

We are proud of what we’ve achieved so far and excited to continue this important work. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to sharing more about our progress in the future.

AI Research group

 

European Researchers’ Night 2024: Inspiring Over 20,000 Visitors Across Croatian Cities

Ja istražujem! 2024

I would like to share the success of the European Researchers’ Night 2024, which took place in Rijeka, Pula, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik. This event attracted a record number of over 20,000 visitors, including teachers, professors, scientists, parents, and their children, all eager to explore the world of science.

During the night, popular city locations were transformed into large laboratories and classrooms. Visitors had the opportunity to learn about the latest scientific discoveries in a fun and interactive way. Our team of researchers organized more than 140 engaging activities, such as experiments, workshops, games, quizzes, lectures, and competitions suitable for all ages. Topics ranged from marine depths and Mediterranean cultures to physical phenomena, human health, and the mysteries of the universe.

One of the highlights was the chance for visitors to experiment themselves, ask questions to researchers, and discover the practical applications and impact of science on our daily lives. Additionally, the program featured presentations of various EU projects involving our researchers, adding depth to the educational experience while ensuring plenty of entertainment.

Researchers from almost all departments of the University of Split, along with partners from the Institutes of Oceanography and Fisheries, the Institute of Adriatic Cultures, and the Institute for Reclamation of Karst, set up 30 interesting stations. Approximately 8,000 visitors participated in these activities. We were especially delighted to welcome over 200 students from nearby schools, supported by the City of Split, which added to the festive atmosphere of the event.

The event was honored by the presence of representatives from the City and County, including Antonija Gladović, Director of the Agency for Mobility and EU Programs, and Nikola Mrvac, State Secretary at the Ministry of Science, Education, and Youth.

Our team members, Dino Nejašmić, Divna Krpan, and Nika Jerković, along with myself, Saša Mladenović, contributed to this commendable event by organizing activities that allowed the youngest participants to interact with AI-based systems. Children had the unique opportunity to engage with a humanoid robot and experience the power of thought through controlling a ball using EEG-based technology.

European Researchers’ Night 2024 was a tremendous success, fostering a love for science and technology among thousands of attendees. It was inspiring to see so many young minds excited about the possibilities that science and AI offer. We look forward to continuing our efforts to make science accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this event. Your enthusiasm and curiosity are what make initiatives like this truly special. Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming projects and events!

Panel on the Importance of Digital Skills for the Tech Community

At the 4th Split Tech City Festival, Digital Dalmatia hosted a panel discussion titled “The Importance of Digital Skills in the Development of the Technological Community.” Digital Dalmatia continues to support the IT and tech sectors in Split and Dalmatia by promoting digital skills, helping startups, and strengthening the tech community.

Why Discuss Digital Skills?
The panel focused on the vital role of digital skills in today’s world. Digital skills are necessary for personal growth and adapting to rapid changes in technology. In the tech community, these skills help individuals succeed and also attract new talent, leading to more innovation.

The discussion explored how education programs can better meet job market needs and how future professionals can be motivated to continue learning new skills.

Key Points from the Panelists
Saša Mladenović, moderator of the panel, is the coordinator of EDIT CodeSchool and a professor at the University of Split. He shared insights from his work on teaching programming and AI technologies.

Goran Zaharija, coordinator of EDIT JuniorDev, talked about the importance of providing a wide range of knowledge to students. He emphasized the need for quality materials and diverse skills for both current IT professionals and newcomers to the field.

Mislav Kovač, from CyberSec Akademija, highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity. He stressed that skilled professionals are needed to prevent cyber attacks, which are becoming more common.

Marko Perajica, from Blank, emphasized that a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical experience is essential for IT professionals. Understanding the theory behind coding is as important as solving problems through practical work.

Luka Petrić, from EPAM, discussed the value of free online education programs, like those offered by EPAM. These programs make high-quality education accessible to everyone, regardless of location.

Conclusion
The panel provided important insights into how digital skills can support both individuals and the wider tech community. The discussion also highlighted the success of various educational programs like EDIT CodeSchool and CyberSec Akademija, while emphasizing the need for collaboration between the education system and the tech industry.

Digital Dalmatia remains committed to promoting digital skills and supporting the growth of the tech sector in Split and Dalmatia.

The Role of AI in Teaching Italian as a Foreign Language: A Balanced Approach

AI in teaching Italian

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, integrating technology into teaching is no longer a futuristic concept but a present reality. Recently, I had the opportunity to present the theme of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in teaching Italian as a foreign language to the elementary school teachers of Split-Dalmatia County. I was invited to speak by Vedrana Šitić, professor advisor and Head of the Association for Teachers of the Italian Language of Split-Dalmatia County, at the professional gathering held on August 29, 2024, at OŠ Ravne njive – Neslanovac in Split, and I am grateful for the opportunity to participate. The discussion highlighted both the possibilities and the challenges of incorporating AI in language learning, particularly in balancing the benefits of technology with the need to nurture pupils as social beings.

AI as a Tool for Language Learning

AI, especially tools like large language models (LLMs), offers new dimensions to language education. One of the most compelling benefits is its capacity to provide real-time conversational practice, allowing students to engage with the Italian language outside the traditional classroom setting. This has the potential to address one of the key challenges in language learning: limited opportunities for practice. With AI, students can engage in conversations at home, receiving instant feedback and developing their linguistic skills without needing a physical partner.

For example, AI-driven applications can simulate conversations with native speakers, offer personalized learning pathways, and adapt to the user’s proficiency level, making it an accessible and efficient tool for both teachers and learners. In essence, AI extends the classroom beyond its physical boundaries, giving learners the opportunity to immerse themselves in the language at their own pace and time.

The Montessori Legacy: Connecting Concepts Over Details

Despite the advantages AI brings, it’s essential to remain mindful of the pedagogical principles that have stood the test of time. Maria Montessori, a pioneer in education, advocated for teaching that emphasizes understanding through connection rather than focusing on excessive detail. This principle remains relevant, even as we integrate modern technology like AI into our classrooms.

"To teach details is to bring confusion; to establish the relationship between things is to bring knowledge. - Maria Montessori"

Instead of overwhelming students with isolated information or mechanical exercises, we should encourage the use of AI to create meaningful, interconnected learning experiences. For example, AI can be used to reinforce thematic learning, where vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills are tied to broader cultural or social contexts. This mirrors Montessori’s philosophy, where students grasp concepts by relating them to real-life scenarios rather than rote memorization.

Technology as Both a Tool and a Distraction

While the possibilities of AI are exciting, the technology can also become a distraction if not managed carefully. In classrooms, where the teacher’s presence and guidance are essential, AI could potentially shift focus away from interpersonal interaction. The risk of students passively relying on technology or getting distracted by unrelated digital content is a concern that educators must address.

It is crucial to strike a balance between using AI as an assistant in the learning process and ensuring that students remain engaged in the social dynamics of the classroom. Language learning is not just about mastering grammar and vocabulary; it’s about developing the ability to communicate, collaborate, and understand others. These skills are inherently social and cannot be fully developed in isolation, no matter how advanced the technology becomes.

AI and Ethics: Navigating the Fine Line Between Learning and Cheating

One of the major points of discussion was the ethical aspect of AI in education. Like any tool, AI can be misused. With LLMs capable of generating text with ease, there is a legitimate concern about students using AI to cheat on assignments and exams. This raises questions about authenticity and the integrity of learning outcomes.

As educators, it is our responsibility to teach students the ethical use of technology. Just as calculators are tools for solving mathematical problems but not for bypassing understanding, AI should be framed as a tool for enhancing learning, not a shortcut to avoid genuine effort. Setting clear guidelines, creating assessments that value process over product, and fostering a classroom culture that values integrity are all essential steps in addressing this challenge.

Shaping the Future of Learning

At the end of the day, AI is simply a tool, much like the blackboard or the textbook, and it is up to us, as educators and society, to decide how to use it.

Will it be a means to enrich our teaching practices, allowing us to create more dynamic, engaging, and individualized learning experiences? Or will it become another distraction, distancing students from the human elements of education?

The answer lies in how we choose to incorporate AI into our teaching methods. By using AI thoughtfully and ethically, we can harness its power to expand both our knowledge and didactic practices. At the same time, we must continue to emphasize the development of pupils as social beings, capable of communicating, empathizing, and interacting with the world around them. After all, the ultimate goal of education is not just to impart knowledge but to help students become well-rounded individuals prepared for life in a global society.

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: technology, including AI, will play a central role in shaping how we teach and learn. It is up to us to ensure that we use this technology in ways that enrich rather than hinder the educational experience.

By keeping this balance in mind, we can navigate the challenges and opportunities that AI presents in teaching Italian as a foreign language, creating a future where technology enhances, rather than detracts from, the human connection that lies at the heart of education.

Inspiring the Next Generation: AI and STEM Education Initiatives

Members of the AI Research Group and the Education Research Group from the Faculty of Science (PMF) in Split recently supported another initiative to popularize science and education. This event showcased various activities for students participating in the STeam project, who presented their work inspired by these initiatives.

Celebrating Student Creativity

In a theater setting, students captivated a full audience with skits, presentations, and videos. They creatively combined dance with AI, sustainability, technology and emotions, science in sports, smart cities, and even cosmetics. This display highlighted the importance of encouraging young minds to adopt and apply knowledge, as they are always ready to question and push the boundaries of what is known.

Collaboration for Success

The success of this event was made possible through the collaboration of various experts and institutions. Researchers from the Institute for Social Research in Zagreb, in partnership with the City of Split and A1 Hrvatska, led the A1 STEMfemme Junior project, aimed at encouraging girls towards STEM careers. However, the activities were inclusive of boys as well. The project’s impact is a testament to the dedicated teamwork with school teachers, university staff, and many enthusiasts who have systematically worked on popularizing science and technology for years.

The Role of AI Compile and Digital Dalmatia

Scientists from AI Compile once again demonstrated their indispensable role in education and AI-related activities. Their long-term commitment to popularizing the IT sector and education, in collaboration with Digital Dalmatia of the Split-Dalmatia County, has been ongoing for seven years. This sustained effort underscores the university’s and research group’s correct approach in fostering a tech-savvy and knowledgeable society through such initiatives.

Conclusion

The recent event not only highlighted the integration of AI and STEM in education but also showcased the power of collaboration and sustained effort in inspiring the next generation. By supporting and encouraging young students, these initiatives play a crucial role in building a knowledgeable and forward-thinking society.

Exploring AI, Personal, and Social Responsibility: Insights from a Recent Workshop

On May 22nd, the Center for Human Rights Research and Education organized a workshop titled “Artificial Intelligence and Personal/Social Responsibility.” Led by Professor Dr. Saša Mladenović and Associate Professor Dr. Marita Brčić Kuljiš, the event discussed about AI’s role in creativity and education, as well as its ethical implications.

AI and Creativity

A key discussion focused on AI’s ability to be “creative”. The experts debated whether AI can genuinely create or if it merely replicates patterns from data. This raised important questions about the nature of creativity and the capabilities of generative models in producing art, music, and literature.

AI in Education

The workshop also explored AI’s impact on education. AI technologies are enhancing personalized learning, intelligent tutoring, and administrative tasks. While these advancements promise improved learning outcomes and accessibility, they also bring ethical concerns such as data privacy and algorithmic bias.

Ethical and Societal Responsibility

The event concluded with reflections on the ethical challenges of AI. The speakers emphasized the need for responsible AI development that aligns with human values and avoids increasing social inequalities. They called for interdisciplinary collaboration to navigate AI’s complex landscape responsibly.

Final Thoughts

The workshop and later discussion highlighted AI’s transformative potential in all fields including education and the importance of ethical considerations in its development and use. As AI continues to evolve, fostering a culture of responsibility and ethical awareness is crucial to ensure a future where technology benefits all of humanity.

JUNIOR Dev React Program Concludes with Success

The halls of PICS@ FESB resonated with the sounds of accomplishment and the bright future of technology. The JUNIOR Dev React program, a beacon of free professional education, marked its grand finale with a ceremony honoring the hard work and dedication of its participants.

The third generation of this esteemed program began in February, with a rigorous selection process that narrowed down 140 candidates to 73 eager learners, divided into four groups. Over six weeks of interactive lectures, these students mastered the intricacies of React, guided by seasoned experts from the AI Compile team, Goran Zaharija as well as Ante Bartulović, Lovre Trogrlić, and Luka Smolčić

Damir Brčić, the leader of Digital Dalmatia, expressed his gratitude to FESB and Locastic for their partnership and support, as well as to Split Tech City for media coverage. He emphasized the importance of equipping young talents with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.

A panel discussion featuring industry leaders Antonio Perić-Mažar (Locastic), Suzana Špika (Postindustria), and Goran Škugor (Ericsson Nikola Tesla) provided valuable insights into the job market and the opportunities for young developers. They unanimously agreed on one thing – persistence is key. With technology rapidly evolving, so does the job market landscape.

The event concluded with the distribution of diplomas and a networking session, celebrating the successful completion of the program and the acquisition of new skills. Digital Dalmatia continues to play a pivotal role in developing the local IT scene and opening new career opportunities.

As we look forward to the future, AI Compile members remain committed to supporting and strengthening the local IT community and fostering innovation in the region.

Inspiring Young Minds in STEM

StemFemme Dobri

Members of the Artificial Intelligence research group, Dino Nejašmić, Antonela Prnjak, and Nika Jerković, hosted students from Dobri Primary School who are participating in the StemFemme project. The students were accompanied by their teacher Kristina Vladić and pedagogue Iris Didić-Mužić. The goal of the project is to engage girls in the STEM field.

The event, held at the Faculty of Science, included workshops demonstrating the reasoning processes of intelligent systems and presenting intelligent agents (robots). The activities showcased how to connect technology with creative activities to foster children’s emotional development and expression.

The success and immediacy of the approach were evident in the working atmosphere, where students shared their views on technology and its impact on creativity by proposing their own solutions. This event once again demonstrates how activities initiated by the Science Festival continue to develop and take place throughout the year.

Through these engaging workshops, the students experienced firsthand how technology can be integrated with creativity to inspire and nurture their interest in STEM. This initiative highlights the ongoing commitment to fostering a passion for science and technology among young minds, particularly encouraging girls to explore and thrive in these fields.

Exploring the Frontiers of Technology and Education at the EDIT Conference

The EDIT conference, held at the PMF in Split, was a vibrant event that brought together educators, school directors, experts, and representatives from educational institutions. The focus was on shaping the future of education through digital technologies and lifelong learning programs.  Members of the Artificial Intelligence research group from the Faculty of Science, Split, including Divna Krpan, Goran Zaharija, and Saša Mladenović, played a significant role in organizing the event, contributing their expertise to the conference’s success.

Highlights of the EDIT Conference

Digital Skills Development: The conference emphasized the importance of acquiring digital skills for students, which is essential for success in a rapidly advancing technological world.

EDIT CodeSchool Success: Over the past seven years, EDIT CodeSchool has offered free programming courses in over 30 primary and secondary schools in the Split-Dalmatia County, with more than 3000 children enrolled.

Innovative Projects: The conference showcased outstanding EDIT projects like JUNIOR Dev React, JUNIOR Dev Express, and the AI Hands-On Workshop, culminating in the announcement of the EDIT CodeSchool winners.

Keynote Speakers and Their Messages

Damir Brčić: The leader of Digital Dalmatia highlighted the goal of fostering lifelong learning and introducing innovations in the educational process to make learning more accessible to new generations.

Panel Discussion: The panel discussion featured Davor Aničić, founder of “Velebit AI”, Gordan Radobolja, Vice Dean for Education at PMF Split, Saša Mladenović, a full professor at PMF, and Ivan Biliškov, director of “Codeasy”.

Key Points:

  • The panelists emphasized that artificial intelligence (AI) will not replace teachers or students.
  • They discussed the importance of being creators and controllers of AI technologies to excel in global competition.
  • Ivan Biliškov concluded by saying, “We must be aware that we control our own destiny. We should not be mere users, but creators and individuals who know how to manage AI if we want to be better than others, or rather, the best.”

This session highlighted the crucial role of AI in education and the workforce, and the need for individuals to develop skills to leverage AI effectively.

Recognizing Excellence

The conference recognized the best EDIT projects and outstanding works by students from primary and secondary schools. Projects like the “Yolo” algorithm for vehicle detection and tracking, and various web development initiatives demonstrated the talent and creativity of the participants.

The Future of Education

The EDIT conference aimed to encourage dialogue on best practices, challenges, and opportunities presented by the integration of digital tools into education. It highlighted the importance of continuous improvement of digital skills and the role of teachers in adapting programs to meet the needs of students in their local communities.

By fostering a collaborative environment and showcasing innovative projects, the EDIT conference underscored the importance of preparing the next generation for a future where digital literacy and technological proficiency are paramount.

Meeting of the Science Communication Working Group in Bodø

The working group dedicated to enhancing science communication within the SEA-EU alliance held a productive meeting at the Nord University Bodø campus on May 7th and 8th.

Nord University became a member of the SEA-EU alliance in January 2023, expanding the initial six-member alliance to nine universities. The SEA-EU alliance offers a remarkable opportunity for ambitious and impactful initiatives in improving communication and collaboration within the scientific community in a broader societal context.

The highlight of this meeting was the presentation of best practices in science communication through selected projects from each university within the alliance. Participants had the opportunity to showcase the diversity of approaches to science communication and the specific contexts in which each university operates.

For the selected project, participants were required to explain why it was chosen as an example of good practice in scientific communication, describe how scientific communication is conducted, how evaluation is carried out, and how its impact on society is monitored.

The second day of the working meeting began with a presentation of key ideas gathered from the presented best practice examples, followed by the drafting of a working version of a document to ensure the quality of scientific communication.

Despite the increasing prevalence of online meetings, this event demonstrated the irreplaceable nature of in-person meetings in exchanging ideas and communication methods, despite all the technical possibilities of holding meetings in a virtual environment.

As an example of good practice, Saša Mladenović from the University of Split chose activities related to popularization conducted through the recently concluded Science Festival. We are pleased to note that the University recognizes and promotes the development of society and collaboration with local authorities for the benefit of society as a whole through its strategic documents. Through this group, we have the opportunity to further raise awareness of the good practice of scientific communication that the University of Split has been implementing for years and introduce innovations based on the good practices of SEA-EU alliance members.

This meeting was a step forward in establishing collaboration and exchanging experiences among SEA-EU alliance members in the field of science communication, aiming to promote knowledge and contribute to societal development at both local and global levels.