eduLAB educational breakfast
On June 7th, decision-makers, teachers, students, and experts gathered for the eduLAB educational breakfast. eduLAB is a dynamic outreach initiative from the TUW Faculty of Informatics designed to introduce students from the 2nd grade onwards to the exciting world of computer science in a way that is both engaging and suitable for their age group. The project receives funding from TU Wien and additional support through grants from the Vienna Science, Research, and Technology Fund (WWTF) and Let’s Empower Austria (LEA). In 2023, eduLAB successfully engaged over 3000 students across Austria with its various educational programs, making significant strides in promoting computer science education among young learners.
After the welcome speeches by Rector Jens Schneider, Federal Minister Martin Polaschek, Dean Gerti Kappel, and Professor Gerald Futschek, a brief introduction was given to the latest eduLAB AI initiative, which includes a new program for computer science education in schools. Prof. Laura Kovacs, the project leader, presented “Adventures of Computer Science for Elementary School”(Abenteuer Informatik fur Volksschulen)," an interactive exhibition designed for elementary schools. The exhibition introduces children to fundamental computer science concepts through age-appropriate, realistic, and playful tasks that spark curiosity and engagement. At the core of the initiative is a hands-on experience that brings key ideas of computer science to life. Visitors can experiment with puzzles, optical illusions, logic challenges, and problem-solving exercises that make learning both fun and intuitive. The program is designed to appeal to a broad audience, including school groups, beginners interested in computer science, as well as experienced students and professionals seeking a fresh perspective on fundamental concepts.
Following the introduction, students and teachers from Feldgasse Gymnasium had the opportunity to get acquainted with the new eduLAB AI school workshops and actively try them out. Two workshops were available:
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“The Nursery”: In this workshop, participants plant a tree and save the world from an impending alien invasion. They explore the world of Machine Learning by helping decision trees grow. First, they create a tree that can recognize fruits. Then, they use a formula that allows a tree to grow “on its own” to differentiate friendly from dangerous aliens.
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“Seven Little Neurons”: In this workshop, participants become part of an artificial neural network. This network is then trained until it can play a game. Artificial neural networks are the foundation of many of today’s successful AI systems. However, how exactly a neural network “learns” often seems too complicated to understand. Participants experience firsthand that learning for a single neuron is not magic, and the system’s intelligence arises from the connection of many inconspicuous parts.
eduLAB aims to demonstrate the excitement of computer science, highlight the real-life impact of AI, and prepare students to tackle future challenges. It not only introduces them to the field but also equips them with the skills to overcome these challenges.
