Improved STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) competencies of students in using the RESPO-VI application and conducting trainings; improved cross-sectoral and bilateral cooperation between higher education institutions, companies and non-governmental organizations in the implementation of digital solutions for monitoring the development of competences in students. Higher education is facing changes that bring new forms of acquisition and transfer of knowledge and competences that involve innovative models of formal and informal training. They intertwine and build on artificial intelligence and mass data. University teachers and students are forced to develop the competences of Society 5.0 and Industry 4.0, which was already indicated by the Covid-19 pandemic which revealed the gaps between current skills and the skills that the industry needs due to the constant technological progress. The general goal of the project is to use decision support systems to monitor the development of STEM students' competencies during formal and informal education, which they need for an easier transition into the 21st century society. The specific objectives of the project are: to identify the general and specific skills of STEM students for the labour market; promote cross-sectoral and bilateral exchange of good practices in the use of digital tools for the development of 21st century skills; to design a new teaching and learning approach for students with the RESPO-VI system that provides support in decision-making.
Summary of bilateral results
The bilateral collaboration enabled a comprehensive approach to identifying and addressing competence gaps among students and employers’ demands in Norway through the survey performed between Norwegian companies. NTNU with advanced expertise and technologies also contributed to the development of a competency monitoring application that utilizes artificial intelligence and large-scale data processing. The NTNU played a crucial role in enhancing the quality of student training by ensuring that training programmes aligned with the latest industry needs while contributing to strategic alignment with broader European and global goals. Together, the Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School and the NTNU prepared a comprehensive report on the competency needs of STEM students as required by employers in both Norway and Slovenia and adapted the research and surveys to align with national and European policies. This joint effort led to development and implementation of a training programme, which included active participation from Norwegian professors and students. The students completed individual assignments that provided valuable insights into new teaching practices and approaches for seminar work. Both institutions collaboratively developed guidelines for integrating the RESPO-VI application into higher education systems in both countries. The RESPO-VI application itself emerged as a product of this bilateral cooperation.
Both institutions continue their bilateral collaboration through further educational and research activities, for ex. in new international projects. They will further join the efforts by preparing shared contributions for conferences and journals as well as seeking new funding opportunities. Their ongoing collaboration aims to develop and realise innovative educational ideas that will support higher education teachers and students in acquiring the skills needed for today's and tomorrow's job market.
Project details
Project info
Project grant
Grant financing
499917.00€
Final project cost
499252.08€