About the course
This is an Erasmus+ blended intensive program (awarding 3 ECTS) combining online sessions on European digital alternatives and entrepreneurial pathways with a hands-on week in Tartu, Estonia. Participants will upcycle IT hardware, prototype solutions using 3D printing and IoT concepts, and work in rotating teams to design sustainable digital services.
Dates and format
- Format and length: blended with 5 days on site, virtual component before the physical activity
- Online from start of March 2026
- 23.03.2026-27.03.2026 on site in Tartu, Estonia
- Location of the on site part: Delta Centre, University of Tartu (Narva mnt 18, 51009, Tartu) explore Delta Centre
BIP topics
Reimagining Technology for Sustainable Futures Explore how digital innovation can drive sustainability and responsible growth in Europe.
Entrepreneurial Pathways for Emerging Tech Leaders Learn frameworks for launching tech-enabled ventures with a focus on community and impact.
European Digital Alternatives & E-Governance Understand models like Estonian e-residency and digital identity systems shaping inclusive societies.
Circular IT and Upcycling Practices Discover how to extend the life of technology through refurbishment and creative reuse.
Hands-on Prototyping and Maker Approaches Apply rapid prototyping techniques—3D printing and low-cost materials—to design functional solutions.
Collaborative Challenge Projects Work in rotating teams to build practical digital services using repurposed hardware and IoT concepts.
Summary
This course aims to equip participants with the ability to design sustainable digital services and explore entrepreneurial approaches for technology-driven social and economic impact. It fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking about European digital alternatives, and practical skills in upcycling and prototyping to promote responsible innovation.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Explain principles of sustainable digital innovation and circular IT practices.
- Identify and apply frameworks for tech-enabled entrepreneurship in a European context.
- Analyze digital identity and e-governance models for inclusive societies.
- Repurpose and prototype IT hardware using maker techniques and low-cost materials.
- Collaborate in diverse teams to develop functional digital services addressing real-world challenges.
Contacts
With any questions about the course, contact the responsible admin.person at Host University (University of Tartu):
Merilin Piirmann, Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Computer Science, Academic Affairs and Mobility Specialist, Erasmus+ Departmental Coordinator via merilin.piirmann@ut.ee
or the teaching staff from University of Tartu:
- Ulrich Norbisrath (PhD), Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Computer Science, Chair of Distributed Systems, Associate Professor of Software Engineering ulrich.norbisrath@ut.ee
- Antti Ainamo (PhD), Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Computer Science, Chair of Software Engineering, Associate Professor of Interaction Design antti.ainamo@ut.ee