Digitalisation is fundamentally changing the way we live and work. This development challenges the education and training system to keep up with the dynamic demands. The aim is to equip skilled workers with future-proof qualifications by imparting new knowledge about digital technologies and adapting existing teaching and learning content to the needs of the labour market.
In wastewater engineering, a field characterised by complex, non-linear processes and multiple operational steps, the effective delivery of such content is a unique challenge. Computer simulations offer immense potential in this context, enabling learners to understand processes independently, develop practical skills and test scenarios without risk to real systems. From standard situations to extraordinary events or system failures, a wide range of scenarios can be simulated and analysed. Simulations also provide insight into internal processes that cannot be directly observed in real systems - ideal conditions for training trainees, career changers and operational personnel.
Despite these advantages, simulations are rarely used in vocational training. There is a lack of interactive teaching and learning materials and user-friendly interfaces tailored to the specific needs of the target groups - trainers, trainees and continuing education participants.
The InterSim project aims to develop innovative and interactive teaching and learning content for vocational training in the wastewater sector. By synergistically linking learning and simulation platforms, the project aims to prepare professionals for the challenges of digital transformation. A particular focus will be on exploring the potential of AI language models. These models will be used to adapt the complexity of teaching and learning content to specific needs, thereby increasing the efficiency of knowledge transfer.
