Tallinn University recently welcomed a vibrant group of new students of the AISS (“Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Societies”) program on Orientation Days, a dynamic three-day event run from September 2 to 4, 2024. This gathering marked the start of an exciting academic adventure designed to introduce students to the program’s structure, offer insights into diverse learning environments, and cultivate a spirit of collaboration among the international scholarly community.
The orientation opened with a warm welcome from the program’s TLÜ coordinator, Professor in Digital Transformation Merja Bauters, who provided an overview of the program and the team. The morning session featured inspiring presentations from associated partners such as Biotoopia, Citizen OS, Inspirators!, and Lääne-Harju Municipality. These presentations gave students a comprehensive understanding of each organization’s mission and the unique learning opportunities they bring. The presentations led to a workshop where students, along with professors, lecturers, and associate partners worked on improving the upcoming study process.
The students from across the globe, representing countries like the Philippines, Iran, the USA, Germany, Kenya, Egypt, Tajikistan, Brazil, Yemen, Italy, Pakistan, Costa Rica, the Netherlands, and Turkey shared their expectations connected with studies, outlining both what they hope to experience and what they wish to avoid.
A strong emphasis was placed on the importance of an inclusive approach, ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported. They were eager to develop critical thinking skills, learn to use data effectively, and understand the integration of AI into daily life.
There was a clear desire for more freedom in choosing projects, opportunities to engage in open and interactive lectures, and participation in meaningful discussions that promote deeper analysis and thought. Additionally, students value the availability of recorded and hybrid lectures, offering flexibility and catering to diverse learning preferences.
Furthermore, students highlighted the need for a digital platform that facilitates the exchange of ideas, sharing of knowledge, and providing feedback on projects. Another group focused on collaborating with associated partners to address important topics such as Digital Literacy, 21st-century competencies, civic participation, and accessibility for the Lääne-Harju region.
The first full day finished with a picnic in TLU.
On the second day, the focus shifted to Finland, as representatives from Tampere University, including Professor of Interactive Technology Markku Turunen, University Instructor and Doctoral Researcher Paulina Baltazar, and Education Specialist Anna Castrén, provided an overview of the courses and programs available at their institution. The day started with an in-depth presentation from all students and Tampere people. They shared valuable insights into various subjects and specializations, as well as practical information about the study system, living costs in Tampere, cultural aspects, and the local health system. This was particularly crucial as AISS students will continue their academic journey in Tampere, Finland in September 2025.
The final day gave an opportunity to get to know more about what Lusófona University will offer to the students. Coordinator of the program, Professor of Software Engineering and Information Systems José de Vasconcelos introduced courses provided by UL, while study specialist Raquel Lopes talked about study systems and life in Porto, including living costs, accommodation, and transport. Later, an online session was organized to present UL professors to students, providing a more personal introduction to the academic environment awaiting them already in February 2025.
Throughout the AISS Orientation Days, participants were not only introduced to their new academic paths but also encouraged to form connections that would enrich their learning experiences. The event successfully laid a foundation for an exciting year of growth, discovery, and collaboration in an international setting.