On 21 May 2026, the second Train-the-Trainer session took place, organised by Leibniz University Hannover as part of the DAAD project “Mechatronics, Energy, Robotics and Innovative Technologies with Ukraine (MERIT-Ukraine)”.
The seminar’s theme – “Blended Learning: Storytelling in the Flipped Classroom” – focused on the practical aspects of implementing blended learning and the “flipped classroom” methodology in technical education.
The speaker at the event was Dr Jan-Willem Vahlbruch, Head of Radiation Protection Courses at the Institute of Radioecology and Radiation Protection at Leibniz University Hannover.
During the seminar, Dr Jan-Willem Vahlbruch presented his experience of transforming a traditional radiation protection training course into a blended format, incorporating elements of storytelling. It was demonstrated how a combination of online sessions, self-directed learning and face-to-face practical sessions can increase student engagement, ensure a more flexible pace of learning and better accommodate the varying levels of preparation among participants.
Particular attention was paid to the use of the ILIAS platform and the integration of its tools – learning modules, tests, forums and interactive elements – to support students during the three-week self-directed learning phase. The speaker also demonstrated examples of the use of storytelling and practice-oriented scenarios to boost student motivation.
The results of implementing the new learning format were examined separately, including improved learning outcomes for students, the ability to personalise the pace of learning, and more effective integration of participants’ practical experience during face-to-face sessions.
The seminar marked another important step in the development of cooperation between Ukrainian and German universities in the field of modern educational technologies and innovative approaches to teaching.
