Boosting Learning with AI at TUM

Published Date : 07/01/2025 

Professor Enkelejda Kasneci, director of the TUM Center for Educational Technologies, introduces elementary school students to AI tools and robots, helping them understand complex concepts through interactive learning. 

Elementary school students are experiencing a new kind of lesson at the TUM Center for Educational Technologies.

The star of the show, Pepper, a meter-tall white robot, is the center of attention.

A few girls from the front row eagerly walk up to Pepper and hug it, while 8-year-old Johan slides excitedly back and forth on his chair at the back of the lab.

This lab, funded by the IT Foundation Esslingen, is located at the TUM Center for Educational Technologies on Munich’s Marsstrasse.

Today, about three dozen second-graders are sitting in front of screens, ready to write and illustrate a story with the help of artificial intelligence.


Professor Enkelejda Kasneci, a computer scientist and director of the EdTech Center, kicks off the session by asking the children if they know about ChatGPT.

Of course, they’ve all heard of it.

Next, they discuss DALL-E, a software that generates images from text descriptions.

Kasneci emphasizes the importance of the interaction between humans and AI in modern education, particularly for young students.

“The interaction between humans and AI plays a crucial role in modern education, especially for young students,” she explains.


By using interactive learning programs and AI-based tools, children can be motivated to explore and learn independently.

These tools help simplify and make complex concepts more engaging and interactive, which promotes engagement and motivation.

“When children are engaged and motivated, they are more likely to retain information and develop a love for learning,” adds Kasneci.


The TUM Center for Educational Technologies is dedicated to advancing the use of technology in education.

The center conducts research, develops innovative educational tools, and collaborates with schools and educators to integrate technology into the curriculum.

The goal is to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students.


Today’s lesson is a perfect example of how AI can enhance the learning experience.

The children are not just passively learning; they are actively engaged in creating their own stories and illustrations.

They use ChatGPT to generate text and DALL-E to create images, combining their creativity with the power of AI.


The IT Foundation Esslingen’s support has been instrumental in making this innovative learning environment possible.

The foundation’s commitment to advancing educational technology ensures that students like Johan and his classmates have access to the latest tools and resources.


As the children work on their stories, it’s clear that the integration of AI in education is not just a trend but a powerful tool for the future.

The TUM Center for Educational Technologies continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the classroom, ensuring that the next generation of learners is well-prepared for the challenges of the digital age. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS):

Q: What is the TUM Center for Educational Technologies?

A: The TUM Center for Educational Technologies is a research and development center at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) dedicated to advancing the use of technology in education. It conducts research, develops innovative educational tools, and collaborates with schools and educators.


Q: How does AI enhance learning for young students?

A: AI enhances learning by providing interactive and engaging tools that help simplify complex concepts. It motivates students to explore and learn independently, promoting engagement and a deeper understanding of the material.


Q: What is ChatGPT and how is it used in the classroom?

A: ChatGPT is an AI language model that can generate text based on user input. In the classroom, it can help students with writing tasks, generate ideas, and provide feedback, making the learning process more interactive and personalized.


Q: What is DALL-E and how does it assist in education?

A: DALL-E is an AI tool that generates images from text descriptions. It helps students visualize concepts and ideas, making the learning process more engaging and creative. It can be used to illustrate stories, create diagrams, and more.


Q: How is the IT Foundation Esslingen involved in this educational initiative?

A: The IT Foundation Esslingen funds and supports the TUM Center for Educational Technologies, ensuring that students have access to the latest AI tools and resources. Their support is crucial in creating an innovative and effective learning environment. 

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