The DigiLab/BE project aimed to bridge the gap between education and industry by developing engaging, hands-on learning materials that teach students and educators how to create, use, and analyze digital twins. By integrating four aspects of digital twins (3D modeling, BIM, sensors, AR/VR, IoT, and data analytics) the project also sought to bridge the gap between static representation of the building itself, and the dynamic real-time data, offering a comprehensive educational approach. The project also emphasized the development of dynamic and engaging learning materials, including videos, digital models and tutorials, making complex concepts more accessible and attractive. These resources are now available on an open online platform, ensuring broad accessibility for students, educators, and professionals. The project expanded its impact by adapting its methodologies for pre-university education, promoting STEM engagement among younger students and ensuring long-term educational benefits beyond higher education institutions. Learning material for four aspects of Digital twins is established. The project has also established two demo sites, one in Norway and one in Spain, offering open example data for the four aspects.
Digital twins in our project are concerned about a digital version of buildings and building use, to document, analyze and improve the physical building. Digital twin technology is rapidly transforming industries, particularly in the AEC sector, and there was a need to integrate it into education and training programs. To bridge the gap between academia and industry, the project focused on developing structured learning materials that break down complex digital twin concepts into accessible, hands-on educational content, without missing the completeness of digital twins. The goal has been to ensure that students at various levels and different study programs could learn the principles, methodologies, and applications of digital twins, preparing them for real-world technological challenges. The methodology used in Digital Twins for BE is and will in the future become even more a support for a holistic view for all activities where buildings are involved. All these activities usually are divided in different educational programs. To develop these connected, but divided disciplines, this holistic view and knowledge is needed.