Strengthening the digital transformation of higher education through low-code
▶Summary
European universities face increasing pressure to modernise digital education, yet low-code environments remain poorly integrated into teaching practice. Institutions lack structured pedagogical resources, teacher training, and accessible platforms to introduce algorithmic thinking, data structures and automation without requiring advanced programming skills. We applied for this project to address these needs by developing (1) a research-based framework on low-code education, (2) a complete pedagogical curriculum for students and teachers, and (3) an open online platform enabling practical experimentation. The objective was to strengthen digital transformation capacity in higher education and provide scalable, transferable tools for multidisciplinary programmes.
▶Objectives
The project aimed to strengthen the digital transformation capacity of higher education institutions by introducing a structured approach to low-code education. Its objectives were: 1. Analyse institutional and pedagogical needs related to low-code adoption and define a clear framework for integrating low-code in higher education. 2. Develop a complete and transferable curriculum introducing students to core low-code concepts through structured chapters and practical examples. 3. Create an accessible online platform enabling hands-on experimentation with data models, automation, state machines and interface components. 4. Build staff capacity through targeted teacher training and shared pedagogical resources. 5. Disseminate results through publications, events and communication actions to support reuse and scaling. Overall, the objective was to provide practical tools and evidence-based guidance to embed low-code approaches in teaching and learning.
▶Activities
The project was implemented across four work packages using an agile, iterative and collaborative approach. Instead of a rigid waterfall model, partners worked through regular online meetings, asynchronous exchanges and shared digital workspaces. This enabled continuous improvement of outputs, quick feedback loops and efficient coordination without unnecessary administrative procedures. WP2 carried out surveys, interviews, focus groups and desk research to define needs and produce the LightCode Manifesto and the Teacher Training Programme. WP3 developed a complete 13-chapter curriculum, refined through iterative testing and feedback from students and staff. WP4 designed and developed the LightCode online platform, translating pedagogical requirements into functional and technical specifications validated through an independent evaluation. WP5 delivered dissemination actions in Austria, Serbia, Greece and Croatia, complemented by major activities in France, international conferences, publications, newsletters and the dissemination kit. This implementation ensured timely delivery, strong partner engagement and high practical impact.
▶Impact
The project produced a complete set of pedagogical, technical and dissemination outputs. WP2 delivered the LightCode Manifesto, a research-based framework on low-code education, and a full Teacher Training Programme for faculty. WP3 produced the complete LightCode Course, consisting of thirteen structured chapters with practical examples accessible through the platform. WP4 developed the LightCode online platform, along with detailed functional and technical specifications validated by an independent evaluation. The platform enables hands-on experimentation with data models, state machines, interfaces and automation. WP5 delivered a full dissemination package: project website and platform, dissemination kit, newsletters, media coverage, four multiplier events, scientific publications (including the LightCode Manifesto paper), international conference presentations, and a French national-level dissemination activity. Together, these outputs form a coherent set of resources supporting the integration of low-code approaches in higher education.