Human Futures Lab: AI, Learning & Culture

Field of study	Information Technologies and Theories, Artificial Intelligence, Philosophy, Education, Language Studies and Intercultural Communication
Duration	2 weeks
Dates	June 22nd – July 3rd
Number of credits	3 ECTS
Contact person	Name: Vilma Leonavičienė Email: Vilma.Leonaviciene@vdu.lt
Course-organising units	Education Academy Centre for Lithuanian Studies and International Programmes
Lecturers	Dr. Augustinas Dainys, dr. Auksė Petruškevičiūtė; Vilma Leonavičienė Guest lecturers: startup founders and AI professionals, school leaders, representatives of social and cultural institutions and educational innovators.
Number of students	Minimum: 5 Maximum: 25
Target group	MA students and senior BA students in sociology, philosophy, languages, arts, creative industries, education, social work and technology-related fields.
Entry requirements	Motivation and English language knowledge at B2 level (CEFR)
Short description	The course is structured around three integrated pillars: (1) AI and global challenges, (2) language and culture, and (3) expierential sociocultural learning in Lithuania. The course explores the main principles of Artificial Intelligence (AI), including algorithms, machine learning, deep learning and Bayesian models of prediction. These technological processes are contrasted with human learning, thinking, creativity and open-ended cultural development. Alongside theoretical lectures and practical AI co-creation workshops, students will participate in interactive Lithuanian language classes and sociocultural activities in Vilnius. Language learning is integrated through experiential methods: city exploration, dialogical tasks, cultural encounters and reflective practices. The programme connects technology, philosophy, language and culture, enabling students to critically reflect on contemporary global challenges while gaining practical skills and intercultural competence. Students will meet founders of AI startups and educational leaders, gaining insight into innovation ecosystems in Lithuania.
Course uniqueness	This interdisciplinary course combines: Artificial Intelligence theory and practice philosophical reflection Lithuanian language learning Immersive cultural experience It offers a rare integration of technological education with linguistic and sociocultural learning in a real-life urban environment.
Aim	understand fundamental principles of AI functioning and creativity. acquire practical skills in AI-supported co-creative writing. develop critical perspectives on technological progress. gain basic Lithuanian communication skills. become familiar with Lithuanian history, culture and contemporary society.
Learning outcomes	During the course, students will: analyse the fundamental principles of functioning and creativity of AI; learn how to use the tool of AI for co – creative writing; get critical understanding of the perspectives of rapid development of AI; deepen their knowledge of global changes and develop resilience to rapid global change. at the end of the course, students, divided by groups, will create final paper about Lithuanian culture and history co – creatively using AI tool.
Programme structure	1 part: Main principles of Artificial Intelligence Machine learning versus human open education AI creativity and human creativity Algorithmic computation and philosophical thinking AI and arts Meeting with founders of AI startup companies Co-creative AI writing workshops Technological progress and contemporary societies 2 part: Global Megatrends Shaping Contemporary Societies; Interculturality in a Globalised World: From Cultural Diversity to Intercultural Dialogue Social Inclusion and Exclusion in Contemporary Societies The situation of young people in a Global Context: Social and Cultural Perspectives The power of social and emotional learning in the age of AI 3 part: Interactive Lithuanian language sessions (everyday communication and cultural vocabulary) 4 part: Sociocultural programme: Vilnius history, guided cultural walks, experiential learning in the city, visit to the Parliament of Lithuania, visits to social institutions.
Fee