#ebcamp26: Two days of discussion on digitalisation in adult education

Once a year, the #ebcamp offers a free, open forum – similar to an Open Space format – with no pre-determined speakers or workshops, allowing adult educators and interested parties to discuss current issues and share practical experiences. There is also plenty of opportunity for networking. The participants themselves decide which topics will be on the agenda at the start of the event. As in previous years, the event was moderated by Gaby Filzmoser and Bianca Baumgartner from ARGE Bildungshäuser Österreich (a member of KEBÖ). John Evers, Chairman of KEBÖ, welcomed the group.

Around 45 participants from five countries – mainly from Austria and Germany – took part in the event. There were also participants joining in from France, Poland and Croatia. The high level of continuity within the community was particularly encouraging: many participants have been “regulars” for years – whilst at the same time, Barcamp newcomers are welcomed every year. The fact that #ebcamp has lost none of its relevance or popularity even after several years was evident not least from the steady registration figures and the very positive feedback. As two participants put it: “The best online Barcamp I’ve ever been to.”

Between AI Euphoria and the Educational Mandate: Where is Adult Education Heading?

A key theme of this year’s Barcamp was the role of artificial intelligence in adult education. Discussions focused on how educational institutions can respond to the growing demand for AI skills training and which tasks will remain the preserve of adult education in the future. It was emphasised on several occasions that interaction, reflection, critical media literacy and pedagogical quality will remain key elements despite increasing automation. Further sessions explored how AI is changing interpersonal relationships and communication patterns, and the impact of digitalisation on social behaviour (e.g. content versus self-protection).

Rethinking learning: motivation, pedagogy and digital learning spaces

Pedagogical issues were also a key focus. Topics discussed included accessible online learning, asynchronous self-study courses and blended learning models. The discussion centred on motivation as the key to learning success, different approaches to learning and the design of online courses. Interest was also shown in so-called ‘learning buddies’ and AI-supported agent systems. During the discussion, it became clear that many trainers see opportunities in supportive AI systems, yet questions regarding learning quality, reliability and the understanding of roles remain unanswered.

Digitalisation & Democracy and more

In addition to education and technology, the focus also turned to socio-political developments. Some sessions addressed democracy education, political education (keyword: ‘learning about peace’), digital citizen participation, and examples of local innovation initiatives.
Discussions also covered challenges in the areas of leadership and digitalisation, identity development from middle age onwards, cryptocurrencies, and the implementation of SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)/GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation). The diversity of topics demonstrated just how broad the spectrum of issues currently being addressed by adult education is.

Outlook #ebcamp27

The organising team is already looking forward to the next #ebcamp, which will take place from 11–12 May 2027. In the meantime, the session minutes from all previous #ebcamps are available to browse on the bifeb information page. Over time, these have built up a comprehensive wealth of knowledge and experience on digitalisation in adult education, which can be utilised far beyond the event dates.

Further information:

#ebcamp Website