Events

Learn & Exchange Project Enables International Training on Artificial Intelligence and Data Literacy within the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme Framework | 7 November 2024 - 24 January 2025

An international hybrid training programme titled "Bridging Knowledge and Technology: A Blended Intensive Program in Information Science" was successfully conducted between 7 November 2024 and 24 January 2025 under the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) scheme. This initiative was made possible by the robust technical infrastructure and learning platform developed within the Learn & Exchange project, which provided the pedagogical and technological foundation for the training activities.

The programme was jointly organised by Gustave Eiffel University (France), Ankara University (Türkiye), University of Barcelona (Spain), and University of Coimbra (Portugal), and brought together 54 undergraduate and graduate students from participating institutions. The learning experience was delivered in a blended format: the online component began on 7 November 2024, followed by face-to-face sessions held in Istanbul from 20 to 24 January 2025.

All online sessions, collaborative tasks, and learning materials were delivered through the multi-language, open-access Learning Management System (LMS) developed as part of the Learn & Exchange project. This platform not only ensured seamless delivery and access but also demonstrated the project's lasting impact by supporting real-time international collaboration and instructional innovation.

Participants attended four intensive modules delivered by leading academics:

• Juan-José Boté (University of Barcelona): “Scripts Programming and Data Management”

• Ana Lucia Terra (University of Coimbra): “Building Digital Order: Using Taxonomies for Knowledge Organization in Online Platforms”

• Nevzat Özel (Ankara University): “AI Literacy: Building Skills for Proficiency in Emerging Technologies”

• Joumana Boustany (Gustave Eiffel University): “Harnessing OSINT and AI for Competitive Intelligence”

The programme enabled students to deepen their expertise in artificial intelligence, data handling, digital knowledge structures, and open-source intelligence. The in-person segment in Istanbul further enriched the experience with interactive workshops and multicultural exchange, reinforcing the value of blended mobility in higher education.

This training exemplifies how the Learn & Exchange project continues to foster sustainable impact beyond its initial scope—through technology-driven, learner-centred, and cross-border educational innovation aligned with Erasmus+ priorities.

 

Multiplier Event: Conference on Innovative Learning Environments and Strategies | October 25, 2024, Ankara, Türkiye

As part of the multiplier events of the “LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future: Novel Digital Transformation MOOCs” project and International Open Access Week, the “Conference on Innovative Learning Environments and Strategies” was held on October 25, 2024, at the 100th Anniversary Hall of the Rectorate, Beşevler 10th Year Campus, Ankara University.​

Speakers at the event included:​

• Prof. Dr. Nevzat ÖZEL (Ankara University, Faculty of Language, History and Geography, Department of Information and Records Management) – “Learn & Exchange Project: An Overview”,

• Prof. Dr. Juan-José BOTÉ (University of Barcelona, Faculty of Information and Audiovisual Media) – “Transforming Digital Education: Using MOOCs for Lifelong Learning”,

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. İrfan ŞİMŞEK (Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Hasan Ali Yücel Faculty of Education, Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technologies) – “MOOCs and Generative Artificial Intelligence: Learning Experiences of the Future”,

• Lecturer Dr. Rafet Orçun MADRAN (Hacettepe University, Faculty of Literature, Department of Information and Records Management) – “The Rise of AI Tutor: Personalized Online Open Courses”.

Multiplier Event: Conference on Redesigning Learning in the Digital Age | October 21, 2024, İstanbul, Türkiye

As part of the multiplier events of the “LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future: Novel Digital Transformation MOOCs” project and International Open Access Week, a conference titled “Redesigning Learning in the Digital Age” was held on Monday, October 21, 2024, at the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Conference Hall, Marmara University Göztepe Campus, Istanbul.

Speakers at the event included:

• Prof. Dr. Nevzat ÖZEL (Ankara University, Faculty of Language, History and Geography, Department of Information and Records Management) – “An Overview of the Learn & Exchange Project”,

• Prof. Dr. Ömer DELİALİOĞLU (Middle East Technical University, Faculty of Education, Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technology) – “Evaluating New Instructional Technologies from Theory to Practice and Recommendations for AI-Supported Learning Environments”,

• Prof. Dr. Süleyman Sadi SEFEROĞLU (Hacettepe University, Faculty of Education, Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technology) – “Future Information Professionals in the Digital Transformation Process, MOOCs, and New Learning Dynamics”,

• Prof. Dr. Kıymet SELVİ (Anadolu University, Faculty of Education, Department of Educational Sciences) – “Paradigm Shift in Education and New Learning Skills”.

International Knowledge Sharing in Pécs: Dissemination Event of Learn & Exchange Project | October 11, 2024, Pécs, Hungary

The dissemination event of the European Union-funded Learn and Exchange project was successfully held at the Civil Közösségek Háza in Pécs, Hungary. Organized as part of the Dénes Koltai Memorial Conference, the event also marked the 20th anniversary of library and information science education at the University of Pécs.

The conference brought together international experts and project partners to showcase the innovative outcomes of the Learn & Exchange project, including the development of multilingual, open-access MOOCs aimed at enhancing digital and information literacy across Europe.

The event began with welcome speeches from Dr. Németh Balázs (Chair of the MTA PTB Andragogy Subcommittee and member of the EAEA Presidency), Dr. György Molnár (Óbuda University KKVK Centre) and Dr. Péter Várnagy (Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Pécs).

The plenary session featured distinguished speakers addressing adult education, digital learning, and project-specific insights:

• Prof. Dr. Heribert Hinzen presented a keynote titled “Professionalization and Institutionalization of Adult Learning and Education”, exploring the historical context and the evolving role of MOOCs and open education in lifelong learning.

• Tóth Máté, the project coordinator, gave a presentation titled “Reflections on Erasmus+ Learn & Exchange Project”, highlighting the project's objectives, international collaboration, and long-term impact, especially the creation of an active European educational network.

Additional keynote lectures included:

• Farkas Éva – “Microcredentials and ILA as Choice for Supporting ALE with Needs-Oriented System Building”

• Benedek András – “Illusions and Reality – For a Chapter in the History of Andragogy in Hungary”

• Kraiciné Szokoly Mária – “The Role of Informal Learning in Our Age”

The afternoon was dedicated to project presentations and thematic discussions:

• Tóth Máté shared the international collaborations of the Library and Information Science Department at the University of Pécs and detailed the department’s contribution to the Learn & Exchange project.

• Dóra Egervári spoke on “Online Learning and Distance Education”, focusing on the development of digital learning tools through Moodle.

• Katalin Varga and Máté Tóth delivered a joint presentation on the interpretation of project results, highlighting five open courses developed by partners from Bulgaria, Estonia, France, Italy, and Turkey.

• Andor Nagy offered a unique perspective with a talk on “Sustainable Digitisation”, emphasizing the value and future viability of digitized cultural heritage.

• Katalin Varga also gave a lecture on “The Role of MOOCs in Supporting Students’ Information Literacy”, exploring how e-learning fosters critical digital skills among students.

An engaging blended workshop session allowed participants to explore the newly developed MOOCs, offer feedback, and contribute to the refinement of the online learning materials.

The event underscored the importance of sustainable international academic collaboration. As a product of partnerships from six European countries, the Learn and Exchange project sets the stage for future development in open education and digital transformation in library science.

 

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Multiplier Events of Learn & Exchange Project: Foster European Collaboration in Digital Education | September 16-18 2024, Tallinn, Estonia

As part of the Erasmus+ funded initiative LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future, a series of multiplier events was successfully conducted from 16 to 18 September 2024 in a hybrid format, combining in-person and virtual participation. The events were hosted by Tallinn University and brought together educators, academic professionals, institutional stakeholders, and digital education experts to explore the project’s results, particularly the development and implementation of innovative Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) designed to enhance the digital competencies of information professionals.

The first session, held in person at Tallinn University, gathered 42 participants from both public and private institutions in Estonia. Opening remarks were delivered by Prof. Sirje Virkus, Aira Lepik, and Sigrid Mandre, who introduced the strategic vision of the project and outlined its integration within the Erasmus+ framework. The session included a detailed presentation of the project’s objectives, the structure and functionality of the MOOC Training Program, and a comparative review of development platforms. Attendees engaged in practical demonstrations, discussed implementation strategies for institutional integration, and participated in an interactive Q&A session focused on the technical and pedagogical dimensions of MOOCs.

The second day, conducted virtually, attracted 14 participants and continued with an in-depth review of the project deliverables and their relevance to current academic practices. Prof. Sirje Virkus facilitated the discussion, which featured technical walkthroughs of MOOC development, tool selection for various educational environments, and dialogues on the scalability of the courses across diverse institutional contexts. Participants shared constructive feedback and highlighted the value of clear instructional design, emphasizing the need for continuous professional development and support infrastructures.

On the final day, 15 participants joined a virtual session that focused on the long-term application and sustainability of MOOCs in education. Led again by Sirje Virkus, Aira Lepik, and Sigrid Mandre, the session showcased interactive MOOC components, emphasized the role of MOOCs in improving remote accessibility and teaching efficiency, and examined practical approaches to automation and learner personalization. Participants proposed the development of a digital community platform to support post-project collaboration and expressed strong interest in localized resource development and hands-on training opportunities.

The multiplier event series successfully raised awareness of the Learn & Exchange project’s outputs, equipped participants with practical tools and knowledge for MOOC implementation, and fostered sustainable international collaboration in the field of digital education. The positive reception and enthusiastic engagement throughout the three days underscore the project’s contribution to enhancing inclusive, scalable, and innovative learning environments across Europe.

Third Transnational Project Meeting | May 7-8, 2024, Florence, Italy

The Third and Last Transnational Project Meeting of the “LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future: Novel Digital Transformation MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses)” was held on 7-8 May 2024 at the University of Florence in Florence, Italy.

At the meeting, examples of course content prepared by project partners were presented, the registration processes for the learning management system were explained, and course success criteria, accreditation, and certification procedures were discussed.

Additionally, Giulia Malavasi gave a presentation titled “E-learning Courses: The Experience of the Library System of the University of Florence”.

Second Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity | November 7-8, 2023, Paris, France

The Second Learning, Teaching, Training Activities (LTT) of the project “LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future: Novel Digital Transformation MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses)” was held at Gustave Eiffel University in Paris, France, on 7-8 November 2023.

In this event, training was provided on creating online courses, the development status of the project was evaluated, examples were presented, and a practice-based workshop was held. The French National Library was visited.

 

First Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity | June 20-21, 2023, Pécs, Hungary

The First Learning, Teaching, Training Activities (LTT) of the project “LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future: Novel Digital Transformation MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses)” was held in Pécs, Hungary, on 20-21 June 2023, at the University of Pécs.

Assoc. Prof. Zoltán Vörös (PhD) from the University of Pécs conducted training on the advanced features of Moodle. A hands-on workshop was held, where updates and innovations regarding system usage and content development processes were discussed, and examples were provided.

The University of Pécs Library was visited, and current practices in the management of cultural heritage were explained.

 

Second Transnational Project Meeting | October 3-4, 2022, Tallinn, Estonia

The Second Transnational Project Meeting of the “LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future: Novel Digital Transformation MOOCs” project was held at Tallinn University in Tallinn, Estonia on October 3-4, 2022.

During the meeting, the project website and the project/learning management system were introduced. Discussions were held on the course contents, credits, and responsibilities, and technical and methodological aspects of content production were discussed.

  

First Transnational Project Meeting | July 1, 2022, Ankara, Türkiye

The First Transnational Project Meeting of the European Union Erasmus+ Project titled “LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future: Novel Digital Transformation MOOCs” which aims to create standardized, transferable, and high-quality digital educational content on topics such as “Digitisation of Cultural Heritage”, “Data Management and Visualization”, “Digital Literacy”, “Information Organization and Access”, “User Experience Design”, and “News Literacy” to enhance the knowledge and skills of future information professionals was held at Ankara University in Ankara, Türkiye on July 1, 2022.

During the meeting, the roles and responsibilities of the project partners were shared, and topics related to the design/development of the project/learning management system and the preparation of content packages were discussed.

 

Seminar on Digital Transformation in Higher Education: Massive Open Online Courses | June 30, 2022, Ankara, Türkiye

The seminar titled “Digital Transformation in Higher Education: Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs)” was held in Ankara, Türkiye, on June 30, 2022, at the 100th Year Conference Hall of Ankara University, as part of the EU Erasmus+ Project titled “LEARN & EXCHANGE: Upskilling the Information Professionals of the Future: Novel Digital Transformation MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses)”.

In this event;

• Prof. Kürşat Çağıltay (PhD) from the Middle East Technical University, Faculty of Education, Department of Computer Education, and Instructional Technology, presented on “Do MOOCs Democratize Education? Who Gets the Most Benefits from the MOOCs?”,

• Prof. Arif Altun (PhD) from the Hacettepe University, Faculty of Education, Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technology, presented on “Design Matters: How Can We Help College Instructors Transform Their Teaching Online?”,

• Prof. Milena Dobreva (PhD) from the Sofia University, Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, Department of Information Technologies, presented on “Upskilling Library and Information Professionals in the Domain of Digital Transformation: Are MOOCs the Silver Bullet?”.

At the beginning of the event, a music performance was presented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Demet Gürhan (PhD) and Assoc. Prof. Güler Demirova Györffy (PhD).

As part of the social activities, a tour was organized to the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, Rahmi M. Koç Museums, and Ankara Castle under the guidance of Prof. Erdem Denk (PhD) and Cengiz İlhami Demir. Additionally, visits were made to Anıtkabir and the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye, Nation’s Library.