E-learning platform

Modern learning methods for modern societies
Sustainable impact through e-learning
Our e-learning platform is not only flexible and accessible, but also sustainable and effective. The SDGs4future program relies on evergreen content, such as videos and interactive modules that remain current and relevant for years to come. Each new lesson created allows the learning system to grow and remain accessible for many future generations of young people. This ensures that once content has been created, it can be used in the long term and continues to have a positive impact on young people's learning and actions.
Other important features of our platform:
- All courses are free of charge
- Can be used on all devices anywhere in the world
- Web-based and secure
- Inclusive and fully automated
- Video streaming for all bandwidths
- Teaching staff not required
Introduction to our
e-learning platform
At the heart of SDGs4future is our e-learning platform. The platform makes it possible to create fully automated learning paths that are developed independently by the young people. The young people log into a secure, web-based system on their smartphone, tablet, laptop or PC, find free courses, complete various lessons and quizzes and, upon successful completion, receive a personalized certificate that they can use for their CV. Below we present the features of the system in detail from the perspective of young people.

The advantages of e-learning
Flexibility
- Independence of time and place: young people can learn anytime and anywhere, which is particularly beneficial for economically disadvantaged young people or those living in remote regions.
- Individual learning pace: Each learner can determine the speed and repetition of the learning material themselves, which leads to a deeper understanding.
Variety of learning materials
- Multimedia content: The platform offers learning materials in various formats such as videos, podcasts, interesting articles with images and interactive simulations that appeal to different learning styles.
- Updateable content: Teaching materials can be quickly updated or expanded to reflect the latest scientific findings or pedagogical methods.
Scalability
- Wide reach: e-learning makes it possible to teach an unlimited number of participants at the same time without physical room capacities playing a role.
- Cost efficiency: In the long term, costs for lecturers, premises and teaching materials can be significantly reduced.
Interactivity and user engagement
- Interactive tools: Quizzes, tasks and projects actively involve users in the learning process.
- Feedback and customization: Automated feedback and the ability to customize learning paths improve learning efficiency.
Proof of performance and certification
- Ongoing assessments: Regular tests and tasks enable continuous performance assessment.
- Certificates: Course completions can be documented by certificates, which increase career opportunities.
Accessibility
- Accessibility: The platform is designed to be accessible to learners with disabilities.
- Multiple languages: Content can be offered in different languages to reach a broader global user base.
Video-based learning conveys memorable content
Stubborn memorization is a thing of the past. We mainly use videos as the primary medium for imparting knowledge and skills. We use the audiovisual power of videos to present learning content in an appealing and understandable way. It is a flexible and effective tool in today's educational world. Video-based learning in our e-learning program is a dynamic, flexible and in-depth method to deliver educational content, promote practical skills and develop a deeper understanding of global sustainability issues.

Better understanding through visualization
- Clear presentation of complex concepts: Videos can convey complex topics such as the SDGs visually, making them easier to understand.
- Demonstration by role models: Videos of role models who successfully implement sustainability initiatives inspire and show practical application possibilities.
Increased commitment and motivation
- Increasing attention: Video-based learning captures learners' attention more effectively than traditional texts or lectures.
- Promoting motivation: By showing success stories and role models, learners are motivated to become active themselves and apply what they have learned.
Promotion of soft skills
- Development of communication skills: Many video lessons contain interactive elements, group discussions and presentations that strengthen important social skills.
- Strengthening problem-solving skills: Project-based video tasks challenge learners to think creatively and develop solution strategies.
Individual learning paths and self-directed learning
- Individual learning paths: Videos allow learners to repeat content as required and focus on areas relevant to them.
- Adaptable learning speed: Everyone can set their own pace, which is particularly beneficial when developing personal and professional skills.
Practical application in projects
- Immediate application possibilities: Video lessons on project-based learning enable learners to immediately apply what they have seen to their own projects.
- Preparation for the classroom: In flipped learning, young people learn at their own pace and then apply what they have learned in the classroom or in small groups.
Accessibility and diversity
- Accessibility for all: Videos can be accessed on different devices and from anywhere, making it easier for learners worldwide.
- Inclusion of different learning styles: Video-based learning accommodates auditory and visual learners and can be enhanced with subtitles or additional resources to support kinaesthetic learners.
The platform overview from the perspective of young people

Starting point course overview
The young people start with an overview of all courses. Our introductory course "All sustainability goals" is the prerequisite for the 18 advanced courses. They offer the opportunity to delve deeper into personal interests. The various filter options and a search function make it easier to find your way around.
The beginners' course - overview course on all SDGs for beginners
Our overview course on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is specially designed for beginners and offers a comprehensive introduction to all 17+1 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. In this course, young people will learn the basic concepts and objectives of the SDGs and understand how they contribute to the promotion of peace, prosperity and environmental protection worldwide. Through interactive and video-based learning modules, young people are taken on an exciting journey that clearly illustrates the global challenges and the importance of each goal. This course provides a solid foundation and stimulates interest in sustainable development.
In-depth courses - in-depth advanced courses on the individual SDGs
The course detail view
The course detail view provides a detailed insight into each of the courses. Young people can watch an overview video, read the course description and get a preview of all lessons in clear sections. They can also read reviews and see a preview of the course certificate.
Once participants have enrolled in the course, the course details page becomes the course center. They see their course progress, have access to course downloads, questions and answers and course announcements from the tutor. They can also see an overview of their grades.
After successfully completing a course, participants can download their certificate as a PDF.


Secure login - data protection first and foremost
The protection of participants' data is of the utmost importance to us. It starts with secure registration through email verification. Participants gain access to the course system via two-factor authentication using a one-time password that is sent to the email address on file.
Further security measures include fraud protection using Google reCAPTCHA, the limitation of active login sessions and the storage of personal data on secure servers.
The dashboard - clear control center
The dashboard gives participants access to all important information about the courses:
- Overview of all courses and their status (started, completed)
- Access to all test results with details and solutions
- An overview of all tasks
- The wish list with pre-booked courses
- All self-asked questions and answers as well as your own course evaluations
- Possibility to change personal data and password


Motivating notifications
We have three ways to activate our course participants. There is the notification bell in the dashboard, which indicates that there is news. Participants can also activate browser push notifications and are then reminded of their course on their smartphone, for example.
Most important, however, are the automatic e-mail notifications. They provide information about new lessons, comments, quiz evaluations, course announcements and new answers in the Q&A area, among other things. There are also various options for reminding inactive users to continue their course.
How the young people experience the courses
The lesson area
From the course detail view, users are taken directly to the lesson area. Here they can navigate through the lessons.
- Distraction-free: The area is free of distractions so that concentration is fully focused on learning.
- Curriculum: The simple curriculum overview of all lessons makes navigation easier.
- Section info: Each section has a small info description that announces what participants can expect in the respective section.
- Progress bar: The course progress is shown as a percentage.
- Lesson sequence: Certain sections or lessons are only unlocked after tests have been passed.


The lesson features
We have endeavored to make the lesson features as varied and user-friendly as possible.
- Overview: In addition to the learning content, each lesson contains lesson notes and can also provide further links to more background information.
- Downloads: Lessons can offer attachments as PDF and other file formats for download.
- Comments: In the lesson comments, young people can comment directly on the lessons or ask questions that are answered by the tutor or other participants.
- Notes: It is also possible to save your own notes for each lesson.
Lesson type Video
Educational videos are a flexible and interactive learning experience that is supported by a variety of functions in our system.
- Video quality: from low bandwidth to 4K high quality streaming
- Playback speed: Select playback speed between 0.5 and 2.0
- Jump markers: Navigation through longer videos via chapter markers
- Resume: Video playback continues where the student last paused it
- Subtitles: Possible in 165 languages
- Audio: Alternative audio tracks in up to 15 different languages
- Compulsory playback: Students must watch the video in full to proceed to the next lesson (optional).
- YouTube: Direct use of existing YouTube video content.
- 3D videos: Immersive 360° videos can also be played.


Lesson type
All media
Video is not everything. Lessons can be designed in almost all media formats and web elements. From simple text to complex online games.
Here is a selection of possible media types:
- Text and further links
- PDF downloads or other formats
- Image, animations or gifs
- Interactive elements such as graphics
- Virtual reality environments
- Augmented reality applications
- Online games
Fun and success through quizzes
Quizzes offer young people the opportunity to test what they have learned in a fun way. The test is also the prerequisite for unlocking new lessons and receiving a personal certificate at the end of the course. Participants are automatically shown the result immediately after the quiz and can check the dashboard to see how the answer was justified.
The following quiz types are possible:
- True/False
- Single Choice - One answer is correct
- Multiple Choice - Several answers are correct
- Cloze texts
- Connecting words
- Connect images
- Organize terms
A fixed number of quiz questions (e.g. 15 questions) can optionally be selected at random from a large pool of questions (e.g. 50 questions). Time limits are also possible to test learning success.

Accompanying learning
Professional feedback from our course team

Personal support from our course team
Personal feedback on tests and questions
Tests with text answers:
Our system also offers the option of creating tests that require shorter or longer text answers. These answers or essays are personally assessed by our course instructors and they provide participants with personal comments.
Questions and personal answers:
Course participants can ask questions at any time. Whether directly in the comments section for a lesson or about the entire course, our trained team will answer all questions.
Projects for small groups
Lesson type Tasks
The "Tasks" lesson type presents young people with small projects that they can carry out independently on their own or in groups with friends. It is also possible for course participants to upload their results and receive an assessment from the course instructor.


Lesson type Live sessions
Our course team is regularly available for live sessions. In online meetings, young people can ask questions, make suggestions and also get to know other course participants virtually. The live sessions are then uploaded to the course and are also available to all other course participants.
AI tutor as an expert (planned)
Course participants usually have questions directly while learning. So that they don't have to wait long for feedback and answers, we are planning to develop an AI (artificial intelligence) that builds on the knowledge and data of the United Nations.
An AI tutor answers at any time of day, multilingual, linguistically age-appropriate and yet at a high technical level. This functionality is not yet available. We want to develop it in the pilot phase.

Course completion

Overview of success in the grade book
Each course contains quizzes, tests and tasks that can be graded. In the grade book, participants can see their current performance level for the entire course at any time, which is calculated from the individual results. In order to improve, young people can retake individual quizzes.
Certificates
Each successfully completed course - both the overview course and the advanced courses - is confirmed with a certificate. These certificates are not only a recognition of the skills and knowledge acquired, but they can also be used as a valuable addition in applications for internships, apprenticeships or further studies. They show potential employers and educational institutions that the young people are committed, have a deep understanding of sustainable development and are actively engaged in solving global challenges.

Inclusion as a platform basis
Our e-learning platform is designed to provide equal educational opportunities for all learners, regardless of their physical ability, geographical location or socio-economic background. Inclusion is at the heart of our efforts and we use advanced technologies and adapted learning materials to create an accessible and supportive learning environment.
Below we list aspects of inclusion in our system:
Accessibility
- Platform design: The e-learning platform is accessible in accordance with the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). This includes support for screen readers, text enlargement and keyboard navigation.
- Subtitles and transcripts: We ensure that all videos and audio files are captioned and transcribed to help students with hearing impairments.
- Visual aids: We use clear and high-contrast colors to make it easier for students with visual impairments to read and understand the content.
Customizable learning content
- Multiple formats: We offer learning materials in different formats (text, audio, video, interactive elements) to suit different learning styles and needs.
- Customizable content: We allow students to customize the presentation of the learning content, e.g. by changing the font size, font or background.
Linguistic diversity
- Multilingualism: We provide the course in several languages to overcome language barriers and include students from different cultural backgrounds.
- Simple language: We use simple and clear language to make it easier for all students to understand.
Social inclusion
- Cultural sensitivity: We ensure that the learning content is culturally sensitive and inclusive. We avoid stereotypical representations and pay attention to diverse representation.
- Promoting diversity: We integrate examples and case studies from different regions and cultures to emphasize the global perspective and diversity.
Support systems
- Mentors and tutors: We provide access to mentors or tutors who can help students with questions and challenges. This can take the form of regular virtual office hours or email support, for example.
- Peer support: We encourage peer support through online forums, group chats and discussion groups where students can help and motivate each other.
Flexibility and individualization
- Self-paced learning: We allow students to complete the course at their own pace to accommodate different learning needs and schedules.
- Individual learning paths: We offer the opportunity to choose individual learning paths that are tailored to the interests and abilities of the students.
Feedback and customization
- Obtain regular feedback: We regularly seek feedback from students to understand their needs and challenges and adapt the course accordingly.
- Adaptability: We are flexible and willing to continuously improve the course based on student feedback and needs.
Technical support
- Support team: We ensure that a technical support team is available to help students with technical problems.
- Low-threshold access: We make sure that the course is accessible on different devices (computer, tablet, smartphone) and with different internet connections.
Do you still have questions about the e-learning platform?
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions
Does each country/region have its own e-learning system?
Yes, each region has an independently structured e-learning system. All versions are based on the same platform, but the content is adapted to the respective region.
Does SDGs4future also offer support for participants without stable internet access or can the content also be accessed offline?
What security measures are implemented to protect participants' data and privacy?
Haven't found the right answer yet? Then click here for our other FAQs.
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