Self-management to go ‒ how AI-based apps can help people with disabilities make the transition from training to work

The team behind the idea wants to empower trainees with disabilities. In a participatory process with the target group, an AI-based app is being ethically monitored and validated for the transition from training to work. This creates a blueprint for the implementation of applied ethics for social economy organisations and enables meaningful AI tools to be further developed. The team consists of Verein Oberlinhaus, the CODE University of Applied Sciences and the technology developer Mind Intelligence UG.

Vier Teammitglieder — The team behind the project idea

What makes you a strong team?

The three organisations complement each other with their expertise: Aircrumb contributes technical knowledge, while the Verein Oberlinhaus provides a holistic understanding of the target group. Participatory research in technology development is a specialism of CODE University. By working together, we can develop ethically responsible solutions that are tailored to the needs of vulnerable groups. We conduct controversial debates in a constructive, inclusive and collaborative manner.

Explain your idea in three sentences.

We are further developing an app in a participatory manner and opening up learning opportunities for everyone involved; this includes AI functionalities and fields of application, ethical challenges, societal changes and the reality of the lives of trainees in vocational training institutions. In doing so, we look not only at the development period, but also at how AI-enabled applications can be made accessible to vulnerable target groups and implemented in organisations.

What makes your idea special?

Our idea is characterised by the fact that all relevant groups of people are actively involved in the development process from the outset and have the opportunity to help shape the direction of the project. The participatory approach ensures a user-centric design. We are committed to ensuring that ethical and legal aspects are taken into account in connection with AI functions for occupational rehabilitation and responsible use.

What’s next?

First of all, it is important to expand the research group to include people from the target group who become part of the project team. With the involvement of all relevant stakeholders, we are developing the concept idea further and pursuing the participatory approach right from the start of the application process. We look forward to dialogue with the network and to incorporating the insights gained into the concept phase.