The ZMML is unique within the university as it combines research, development, and service under one roof. Thanks to its collaborative approach, the center can build on existing infrastructure and digital services from other university institutions. This enables more individualized and efficient e-learning solutions. “We see this as an advantage,” says Yildiray Ogurol, Managing Director of the ZMML. Because it has made it possible to develop in-house expertise within the ZMML, which in turn enables tailor-made solutions for teachers. “Since we develop some of our applications ourselves, we can respond very well to the individual needs of our teaching staff,” he emphasizes.

The center on Klagenfurter Straße offers a diverse range of services divided into six areas of expertise: multimedia teaching methods, the Stud.IP learning management system, media services with podcast and film studio, digital teaching and learning formats (such as eGeneral Studies), multimedia learning spaces for students, and e-assessments. Detailed descriptions of these services, along with contact information for staff support, can be found on the ZMML website.

Great Success: The Win a Tutor Project

Over the past decades, ZMML employees have implemented more than 40 projects, including Win a Tutor, one of the center’s most successful initiatives since 2008. The project has supported over 230 smaller projects across various departments with a focus on the practical application of cutting-edge e-learning scenarios aimed at substantially enhancing teaching quality. The special feature: These scenarios were developed and tested in small projects and, where appropriate, evaluated over several semesters. Trained student assistants act as tutors for teachers. “This allows us to experiment with new ideas and break down inhibitions,” explains Martina Salm. “It is important to us not to offer e-learning solutions as an end in themselves, but to always combine them with a multimedia education approach.”

Hot Topic: AI in Teaching

The educator, who specializes in multimedia uses in teaching, offers individual consultations to teachers. For a consultation, teachers simply need to email her. Currently, many of these consultations focus on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching. However, consultations arenot just about enabling teachers to use AI efficiently; they also address issues such as data protection compliance. “We are pleased that as a result of a recent collaboration with the Chief Digital Officer’s team and the Office for Higher Education Didactics, we are able to provide all university members with access to AI models that complies with data protection regulations,” says Salm. The access is provided by the GWDG, the Society for Scientific Data Processing at the University of Göttingen, which facilitates the use of various AI models.

And what about exams? That’s where Jens Leimann and his team come in. They set up the electronic testing department at the University of Bremen. At the heart of this department is the on-campus testing center, which opened in 2007 right next to the State and University Library. “We have 120 computer workstations here, where admission tests, placement tests, intermediate exams, practice exams, and general written exams can take place,” explains Leimann, who holds a PhD in biology. E-exams greatly reduce workload for teaching staff, especially in courses with large numbers of students. The examination formats range from simple multiple-choice questions and matching exercises to mathematical and essay questions, as well as exams using special application software for statistics or programming. “We support teaching staff throughout the entire exam process, from initial counseling and creation to quality assurance, delivery, and follow-up. Exams are a serious matter, so nothing is supposed to go wrong,” Leimann emphasizes.

Further Information

ZMML website