The DETAILLs project, an Erasmus+ initiative, is leading the charge by combining the
technical skills of artificial intelligence (AI) and the mindset for sustainability through Living
Labs—practical environments that foster collaboration between academia, industry,
government, and civil society. A core part of the project’s evolution is researching and
developing best educational practices within these AI-driven Sustainability Living Labs.

Exploring the Living Lab Model

Activity 2.4 of the DETAILLs project focuses on studying the best educational practices in
Living Labs. Living Labs offer a dynamic and interactive space where students, educators,
industry professionals, and local communities collaborate to address real-world challenges
through innovation and co-creation. At their core, Living Labs are structured to simulate
real-life scenarios, allowing learners to test solutions to sustainability issues using AI tools.
This hands-on experience enables students to engage in experiential learning, a key
element in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical application.
The focus of Activity 2.4 has been to examine the educational experiences across various
existing Living Labs within the European Union and beyond. These labs often align with
the Quadruple Helix model, which brings together four major stakeholders: academia,
industry, government, and civil society. The aim is to create a holistic and inclusive
approach to education and innovation that drives sustainable, impactful outcomes.

Key Findings

One of the most significant outcomes of Activity 2.4 has been the identification of best
practices in educational methodologies that enhance student learning within these labs.
From the research conducted, a few critical areas have emerged as pillars of effective
Living Lab education. First is the integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as AI,
augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR), which enrich the learning experience.
These tools provide immersive, interactive environments that help students understand
complex sustainability challenges and solutions.
Another critical finding is the emphasis on collaborative learning environments. Living Labs
thrive on co-creation, where students and educators are involved in the design process
from the start, working with external stakeholders to tailor educational experiences that are
practical and relevant.
The lessons learned from this research emphasize the importance of hands-on,
interdisciplinary learning environments that not only teach students the theory behind AI
and sustainability but also immerse them in the real-world application of these concepts.
With Living Labs as the educational platform, DETAILLs is setting the stage for a new
generation of professionals ready to tackle the world’s most pressing sustainability
challenges.