From 19 to 23 October 2023, Bilbao became a meeting point for learning, collaborating and reflecting critically as our project brought together participants for a five-day training. We focused on exploring how AI is transforming youth work, creating opportunities to exchange experiences, discuss challenges and reflect on the use of AI.
Through interactive workshops, group discussions, activities and collaborative learning we explored several questions surrounding AI. We encouraged participants to share perspectives, strengthen their knowledge and contribute to development.
EXPLORING AI IN YOUTH WORK
During our first day we focused on understanding the growing role of AI in youth work.
Participants were invited to share their professional experiences, discuss existing AI practices within their organisations and reflect on the opportunities and challenges that these technologies bring to education, communication, participation and inclusion. Though activities such as “Ai Reality Check” and the “AI EU Cafe” we encouraged participants to examine real-life scenarios involving AI, identify potential risks and ethical dilemmas, comparing different national perspectives on AI.
These exchanges provided a foundation for identifying common challenges and considering how youth work can help young people navigate an AI-driven world with greater confidence and critical awareness.
FROM REFLECTION TO ACTION
As the training progressed, the focus shifted from critical reflection to practical collaboration.
Participants explored the gaps between young people and youth workers in AI knowledge, digital literacy, confidence, critical thinking and awareness of potential risks. Building on discussion and experiences during the last session, participants were able to identify common needs and challenges that could be addresses through our project.
Through collaborative discussion and an “Output Design Spirit”, participants began defining their target audiences, identify priority challenges and spotting potential solutions. This process helped connect the learning experience with the development of meaningful resources for the project.
DEVELOPING RESOURCES
During the final two days,participants focused on turning their ideas into practical contributions to the project. Working in collaborative groups, they developed materials and proposals related to the “AI Toolbox”, “Policy Recommendations”, and “Awareness Raising & Dissemination”.
The programme included “Output Labs”, where participants worked on drafting content, exchanging feedback and improving ideas. The groups had the opportunity to explore different perspectives and consider how their proposals could respond to the needs of people.
A “User Testing Lab” was also included in the programme, encouraging participants to examine their ideas from the perspective of those who might eventually use the resources.
We concluded with an “Output Showcase”, bringing the different strands of work together and providing an opportunity to share proposals, reflect on the learning experience and explore how the ideas developed in Bilbao can contribute to the project’s next steps.
LOOKING AHEAD
This training marked an important step in the ingoing development of AI.Proof, highlighting the value of international collaboration, shared learning and critical reflection in addressing the challenges and opportunities of AI.
By bringing different perspectives together, the training reinforces the importance of making AI education accessible, inclusive and relevant to everyday realities. The ideas and contributions explored throughout the five days provide valuable foundation for the next stages of the project, supporting the development of practical resources, awareness activities and recommendations.
As AI continues to shape the way we learn, communicate and participate in society, AI.Proof remains committed to empowering young people and youth workers with knowledge, skills and confidence to engage with these technologies critically and responsibly.
