Cruise School on
Artificial Intelligence for Technological & Social Change
22–29 January 2027 · Mediterranean
The Cruise School is an intensive interdisciplinary program held on board a modern cruise vessel in the Mediterranean. It brings together doctoral candidates, researchers, academics, and industry professionals to explore how AI can drive technological innovation and societal change.
Through advanced lectures, interactive seminars, applied labs, and collaborative project work, participants engage with both core AI methodologies and strategic foresight frameworks in an international academic environment.
Academic Structure
The curriculum combines advanced lectures, interactive seminars, applied laboratories, and collaborative studio-style teamwork.
Common Core: AI & Futures Studies
This foundational module integrates machine learning, data-driven reasoning, and futures methodologies. Participants will learn to:
- Connect causal analysis with scenario design
- Navigate ethical and governance dimensions of AI
- Develop forward-looking strategic and policy frameworks
Thematic Modules
Engineering & Data-Driven Systems
Control and optimization, digital and cognitive twins, industrial AI, energy systems, and advanced data pipelines.
Social Sciences, Policy & Society
Causal inference, PLS-PM modeling, AI governance and regulation, socio-technical transformation, public-sector innovation, and ethics-by-design.
Interdisciplinary Studio Project
Participants work in mixed teams addressing applied challenges in:
- Logistics and port systems
- Healthcare and public health
- Public policy and governance
Each team develops a structured project including problem framing, an AI-enabled solution concept, and a foresight-informed implementation roadmap.
The program concludes with a final academic showcase.
Who Should Attend?
- PhD students and researchers seeking rigorous cross-disciplinary training
- Professionals and managers applying AI to sustainability and organizational transformation
- Academics interested in mentoring and building international collaborations
- Applicants from STEM, social sciences, and the humanities are welcome.
Learning Outcomes Why Attend?
Upon completion, participants will be able to:
- Integrate AI methodologies with futures analysis
- Design robust data-driven arguments for policy and management
- Prototype AI-enabled solutions under real-world constraints
- Address governance and ethical implications
- Collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary teams
Program Details
Format & Workload
The week blends core sessions, thematic breakouts, applied labs, and a studio project.
The total workload corresponds to 7 ECTS credits (subject to home institution regulations).
Assessment & Certification
Assessment is based on active participation, the team project deliverable, and a short individual reflection.
Participants who complete all requirements receive a Certificate of Participation. Documentation for ECTS/CFU recognition is provided upon request.
Funding & Eligibility
The school is open to European institutions participating in Erasmus+ mobility frameworks.
Participants are encouraged to consult their home institutions regarding funding procedures.
Software & Preparation
Participants must bring their own laptops.
No advanced prerequisites are required; analytical curiosity and interdisciplinary openness are essential.
Venue & Experience
Learning takes place on board a modern cruise vessel designed to balance academic rigor, professional networking, and cultural exploration.
The maritime setting provides a distinctive environment for examining AI applications in complex infrastructures and sustainability systems.
HOW?
Pre-registration is currently open
Let’s Shape the Future Together!
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