FutureForward is an Erasmus+ co-funded project (Project No: 2024-1-IT02-KA220-ADU-000253630) aimed at empowering adult educators and learners by enhancing their digital skills to access and use AI tools effectively in daily life and work. Budakov Films is proud to be a partner in this impactful initiative, which commenced on October 1st, 2024, and will run for two years. Through comprehensive training programs, innovative resources, and practical learning applications, FutureForward seeks to bridge the digital divide and foster a confident, AI-literate adult population across Europe.

Introduction The digital transformation is redefining how we work, live, and learn. As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more integrated into everyday tasks, ensuring that adults, especially those with limited digital skills, are equipped to use these tools effectively is essential. The Erasmus+ co-funded project, FutureForward, sets out to address this challenge by providing targeted resources and training aimed at adult educators and learners. This blog post delves deeper into the project’s objectives, target groups, and the expected outcomes, offering a comprehensive overview of how FutureForward aims to bridge the digital skills gap among adults.

Project Objectives

FutureForward is driven by two main objectives:

  1. Supporting Adult Educators: The project is dedicated to enhancing the knowledge, skills, and competencies of adult educators. This group will gain the tools and insights necessary to deliver engaging and practical training on AI to adult learners. The goal is not just to introduce the concept of AI but to equip educators with pedagogical strategies and technical know-how to make their teaching impactful.
  2. Empowering Adult Learners: The project focuses on adults, particularly those over 50, who may have minimal digital skills. By improving their competencies, these learners will be able to navigate AI tools effectively, making daily tasks and professional work more accessible and secure. Whether it’s sending an email, searching for information online, or using an AI-based scheduling tool, FutureForward aims to instill confidence and proficiency in digital environments.

Target Groups

FutureForward targets two main groups:

1. Adult Trainers and Educators: This group includes a wide range of professionals committed to facilitating adult learning and adaptation to digital transformation. The target includes:

  • Trainers and training organizations: Those who provide digital skills programs and workshops aimed at adult learners.
  • Adult-focused organizations: Groups dedicated to promoting digital literacy, reskilling, and the inclusion of adults in the digital sphere.
  • Non-profits and governmental bodies: Entities working on policies or initiatives to enhance digital inclusivity among adults.

These educators will gain structured support, resources, and professional development opportunities to aid their teaching efforts and support their learners in mastering AI tools.

2. Adult Learners: This target group comprises adults over 50 who may struggle with basic digital tasks. Many within this demographic may be unfamiliar with the potential of AI tools or even wary of using digital technologies. FutureForward aims to demystify AI, showing how it can simplify everyday life and boost productivity in professional settings. By focusing on adults with low digital proficiency, the project ensures inclusivity and widespread impact.

Project Results

The FutureForward project will deliver several key outcomes designed to meet the objectives outlined above:

1. FutureForward Trainer Platform This platform will be a comprehensive, freely accessible online environment for adult educators, featuring two primary sections:

  • Section One: This part of the platform will host a range of resources, tools, and technical advice that educators can use to create and implement AI training pathways for adult learners. It will provide step-by-step guides, video tutorials, and interactive content focused on integrating AI into teaching.
  • Section Two: This section will include a specially curated teachers’ book, divided into modules. The book will outline a structured training pathway with practical advice on organizing and delivering courses. It will include adaptable lesson plans, assessment methods, and strategies for engaging learners with low digital skills.

2. FutureForward Transnational Training Course The transnational training course will equip adult educators with hands-on experience and peer learning opportunities. This course will be pivotal in building the educators’ confidence and competency in teaching AI-related content. It will cover essential topics such as:

  • Implementing training paths: Step-by-step processes for introducing AI tools to learners.
  • Managing learner engagement: Techniques for maintaining interest and ensuring comprehension.
  • Practical applications: Real-world scenarios that showcase how AI can be used both in personal and professional contexts.

3. FutureForward Use Cases Animations To make learning engaging and relatable for adult learners, FutureForward will produce a collection of animated use cases. Each animation will depict various real-life situations where AI can be beneficial, such as:

  • Home management: Using AI assistants for scheduling and reminders.
  • Workplace productivity: Leveraging AI tools for data analysis or report generation.
  • Healthcare: Accessing AI-powered apps that provide medical advice or monitor health metrics.

These animations will not only highlight the practical advantages of using AI but also address potential risks and ethical concerns, ensuring learners understand how to use AI safely.

4. FutureForward MOOC The modularised FutureForward MOOC will be a vital resource for adult learners. This online course will be structured to provide step-by-step learning, allowing learners to progress at their own pace. Key components of the MOOC will include:

  • Introduction to AI: Basics of what AI is and how it works.
  • Everyday Applications: Lessons on how AI tools can simplify common tasks, such as online shopping, managing schedules, or personal finance tracking.
  • Safety and Ethics: Guidance on using AI tools securely, understanding data privacy, and recognizing the ethical implications of AI.

Management and Implementation

Effective project management is essential to the success of FutureForward. The kick-off meeting set the stage for collaboration, with detailed discussions on management strategies, timelines, and team roles. Key implementation steps include:

  • Work Package 2: FutureForward Trainer Platform: The start of Work Package 2 was a focal point in the meeting. Partners discussed deadlines, task allocation, and the development process. This collaborative approach ensures that each organization contributes their expertise, from technical design to educational content creation.

Dissemination and Quality Assurance

The project’s outreach efforts and quality control measures are designed to ensure that FutureForward reaches its intended audience and maintains high standards. Dissemination activities will include:

  • Workshops and webinars: Engaging sessions to introduce the project outcomes and gather feedback from educators and learners.
  • Collaboration with partners: Continuous dialogue with project partners to align efforts and share best practices.
  • Focus-group interviews: Budakov Films has already commenced this aspect, interviewing AI experts to inform content development and maintain relevance.

Quality assurance will be managed through regular reviews, ensuring that resources are clear, practical, and tailored to the needs of adult learners and educators.

Conclusion

FutureForward is set to make a significant impact on adult education by supporting both educators and learners. Through targeted training resources, innovative use case animations, and a robust online platform, the project will help bridge the digital divide and empower adults to confidently use AI in their everyday lives and work environments. By focusing on practical, accessible, and engaging learning, FutureForward aims to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age. Stay tuned for updates and see how this project helps adults step into a future where AI is an everyday tool, not a mystery.

*Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Agenzia nazionale Erasmus+ INDIRE. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. 2024-1-IT02-KA220-ADU-000253630