A cult caravan on an educational mission

There is a hint of pre-Christmas spirit in the air in the entrance area of the hall. The three new vehicles of the mobile learning center "Zukunftslernort Oberlausitz" (ZukLOS) stand between festive scents and technical innovation.

A modern pneumatics test stand catches the eye right at the entrance to the hall. Valves, hoses and regulators invite visitors to try them out. This approach runs through all of ZukLOS's extracurricular educational activities: the focus is on practical experience and hands-on participation. Kits, tools and modular systems are designed to get children and young people interested in technology and innovation.

The central element of the mobile offers is a new AirStream® trailer, which can be flexibly equipped to cover a wide range of topics - from wood and metalwork to robotics and 3D printing. "Thanks to the modular concept, we can adapt the trailer to the individual needs of the students," explains Rector Prof. Dr.-Ing. "Technology can be experienced here in the context of current challenges such as climate change or social change."

The trailer impresses with its retro aluminum design in the style of the 1960s, combined with innovative learning concepts. "At a time when flexibility and mobility are becoming increasingly important, mobile learning spaces are fundamentally changing how knowledge is acquired and imparted. We want to help ensure that every child and young person in Upper Lusatia has the opportunity to come into contact with innovative STEM subjects at least once," explains Prof. Dr. Sophia Keil, Vice-Rector for Education and International Affairs. As she attaches the new license plate to one of the towing vehicles, she emphasizes the target groups: students, school pupils and trainees in particular.

The event itself also encouraged interaction and personal initiative: several flipcharts invited visitors to share their ideas and wishes for future event formats and topics. In addition, all those present were able to make suggestions for a suitable name for the mobile learning location. This led to lively discussions between visitors, students and university staff.

During the event, the university's student council (StuRa ) created a cozy atmosphere with speculoos, gingerbread and hot drinks. The participants left the hall with new impressions and inspiration - perhaps already looking forward to the next innovative offerings from ZukLOS.

The HSZG's mobile learning space has already been presented at various events, including the official inauguration on October 2, 2024 as part of the matriculation ceremony. A presentation was also held on the Görlitz campus on November 6, 2024. These events gave the university public the opportunity to experience the mobile learning concept in action and see the flexibility and versatility of the mobile learning location for themselves.