Interdisciplinary Teaching & Learning: Prof. Dr. Isa Jahnke on UTN’s Learning Design

Rethinking Teaching – How Learning is Designed at UTN
With Prof. Dr. Isa Jahnke, Founding Vice President for Academic and International Affairs

What defines good teaching today? How can learning succeed in a rapidly changing world? And how can universities best prepare people for the future and the evolving world of work?

The University of Technology Nuremberg (UTN) is rethinking and innovating higher education from the ground up – with an innovative, research-based learning and teaching concept that places active learning, interdisciplinarity, and personal development at its core.

In her keynote, Prof. Dr. Isa Jahnke will share insights into UTN’s educational approach: practice-oriented, connected, digitally supported, and reflective. She will speak about a feedback culture, diverse assessment methods, and the roles of students and educators as a collaborative team.

What does that mean? Knowledge is co-created. Students tackle real-world questions in teams, receive individual feedback, and actively shape their own learning process. Digital tools – including AI – are used purposefully, not as a replacement, but to deepen engagement with a topic. A wide range of assessment formats ensures a learning growth, quality and fairness.

This event is for anyone interested in new approaches to higher education – from academia, industry, society, or simply with a curious mind. It offers a look behind the scenes of a teaching model that empowers learners to think independently, responsibly, and across disciplines. And it raises the question: what does teaching look like when you start with a blank slate?

After the talk, there will be time for open discussion and questions. Prof. Dr. Isa Jahnke welcomes your thoughts, ideas, and perspectives.

The event will take place at Cube One, UTN’s first building. It offers a glimpse into the emerging campus – and a chance to experience what UTN stands for: openness, collaboration, and the courage to innovate.

We look forward to welcoming everyone who wants to join the conversation, think ahead, and take away new ideas.