International Association of Learning Factories

The organisation was established in 2011 in Darmstadt, Germany, uniting professors managing European Learning Factories. The inaugural Conference on Learning Factories was held that same year. Membership expanded to 31 by 2021, prompting the introduction of presidential and scientific committees alongside the presidency. Annual conferences host General Assemblies where members are elected, projects are discussed, and member updates are shared. Working groups facilitate collaborative international research initiatives and joint publications. The association provides opportunities for researchers, students, and industry partners.

Our Mission

Manufacturing success requires staff competency development addressing digitalization, climate change, and sustainability. Excellently prepared students, qualified engineers and workers must plan and implement the necessary transitions. The association advocates for learning systems that enable stakeholders to grasp the complex technical and organisational interrelationships of today's industrial environment.

Members collaborate on manufacturing challenges, integrating the latest results into programs — exchanging knowledge, practices and learning modules; establishing joint research funded nationally and internationally; developing synergies in learning factory infrastructure; and demonstrating leadership through technology anticipation and integration.

Definition of "Learning Factory"

A learning factory constitutes a learning environment where processes and technologies are based on a real industrial site — allowing a direct approach to the product-creation process (product development, manufacturing, quality-management, logistics). These environments employ didactical approaches emphasising experimental and problem-based learning, facilitating continuous improvement through participant action and engagement.

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