ICR (Innovative Care Robotics) is a joint research and development project of the private university Kolegji Heimerer in Prishtina (Kosovo) and the coordinating nursing researchers of the Working Group for Health Research of the Martin Luther University in Halle-Wittenberg (Germany) as well as other associated partners.
Analogous to the already well-established Digital HealthCare Hub at the Dorothea Erxleben Learning Centre of the Medical Faculty in Halle, the first “robotic Future Care Lab” in the Western Balkans was set up at Kolegji Heimerer as a space for the new and further development of robot technologies. This is intended to serve the practice-oriented development and application of future technologies in care, in particular complex application scenarios to be developed collaboratively and multidisciplinarily for the use of social-assistive robotics – and here in particular humanoid communication robotics (social assistive robotics) – in health care. Thereby, the participation of the various user groups and partners from industry will be facilitated, as well.
Project Milestones
- RIS3 study and analysis
- Junior scientists successfully activated; qualification phase started and evaluated
- Validation of test environment and scientific-technical development completed
- Opening of rFCL + and first implementation of scenarios in rFCL
- SMEs integrated and promotion of entrepreneurship conceptually prepared for transfer activities
- Translation workshops and qualification work with a start-up perspective carried out
- Reflection meetings conducted and final document prepared as well as further scientific publications
Aim of the project
The project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research of the Federal Republic of Germany under the Berlin Process and has the overall objective of promoting and strengthening the gradual integration of Kosovo and the Western Balkans into the European Research Area by enhancing their potential in science and innovation. This is achieved by training young professionals in the field of digital and robotic healthcare, providing them with a more attractive environment to avert labour migration and remain in Kosovo, and through increased attractiveness for new foreign investment, innovation and development.
The programme “Strengthening Germany in the European Research and Education Area” according to the Directive for the Promotion of Research and Development Projects between Germany and Western Balkan Countries (WBC2019) accordingly also supports young Kosovar scientists in their doctoral theses at the Faculty of Medicine in Halle within the framework of the same project.
Another outcome of this project, which uses the innovative and participatory RIS3 strategy concept for regional development, is the assessment of the potential of Kosovo and the Western Balkan countries to specialise in digital and robotic healthcare.
Methods
Theoretically, the approach of the Future Care Lab is to be oriented towards the Care Centered Value-Sensitive Design van Wynsberghe (2016) in order to integrate the adaptable (communication) technologies into the care process and into various – also didactic – care settings under the guidance of care research. In this way, not least, the everyday life of people in need of care or older people and their relatives can also be supported with the help of robot technologies.
In order to more precisely identify and define the presumed functional benefits to support both the caregivers and the care recipients, an understanding of the fit between the robotic offer and the needs and requirements of the user groups should be gained (Sanders und Stappers 2008; Kohlbacher und Herstatt 2008; Kohlbacher et al. 2009; Rabe und Kohlbacher 2015; Hergesell et al. 2020).
The theoretical basis for participatory development is the innovative framework for user-centred development of digital health applications successfully evaluated by Farao et al. (2020). It combines the information design framework with creativity- and participation-promoting elements of design thinking (Altman et al. 2018). Central elements of Farao et al.’s (2020) concept are the project-specific elements linked by iterative loops: environment, design and development, and the knowledge base. The respective cycles describe the co-creative interaction with the future users and their requirements (environment), the reflection on technical components and previously implemented prototypes (design and development), and the critical examination of opportunities and risks of the current implementation status or the implementation concept (knowledge base).
Partners
Martin-Luther-University, commonly referred to as MLU, is a renowned German university located in the cities of Halle and Wittenberg. Founded in 1817, it is named after the prominent Protestant Reformation leader Martin Luther. MLU is one of the oldest universities in Germany and has a rich academic history.
The university offers a wide range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine. It is particularly well-known for its strong focus on research and has made significant contributions to various fields over the years. MLU boasts a diverse and vibrant academic community, attracting both national and international students and scholars.
With its numerous faculties and research institutes, MLU provides a conducive environment for academic excellence and innovation. The university is committed to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting critical thinking. Students benefit from a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
MLU’s campuses in Halle and Wittenberg are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, libraries, and lecture halls. The university also maintains partnerships with renowned research institutions and offers exchange programs to facilitate global academic engagement.
Overall, Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg is a prestigious institution that upholds a tradition of academic excellence while embracing innovation and diversity. It continues to play a vital role in shaping Germany’s educational landscape and contributing to advancements in various fields of knowledge.
Heimerer College, founded in 2010 in Pristina, Kosovo, is a distinguished institution of higher education dedicated to providing comprehensive health education programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. With a strong emphasis on the development of high-quality and practical study programs in accordance with international standards, societal needs and the labor market, Heimerer College strives to provide an exceptional education to its students.
To ensure a high-level learning experience, Heimerer College uses evidence-based research, fosters international collaboration, recruits qualified teachers, and uses modern and innovative teaching methods. The College recognizes the importance of practical training and offers extensive clinical practice opportunities both nationally and internationally, enabling students to gain valuable practical experience in real healthcare settings.
An integral aspect of Heimerer College’s vision is the internationalization of its processes and future development. By actively engaging in international projects and establishing strong partnerships with institutions abroad, the college aims to foster a global perspective and provide students with opportunities for international exposure and collaboration. These initiatives contribute to the college’s commitment to preparing graduates who are equipped with a broad worldview and are ready to thrive in an interconnected world.
Additionally, Heimerer College values national collaboration with partners and policy makers. By actively collaborating with various stakeholders in the country, the college ensures that its programs are in line with national priorities and address the evolving needs of the health care sector in Kosovo. This close collaboration enables Heimerer College to remain responsive to the local context and effectively contribute to the advancement of health education in the country.
Also, Heimerer College recognizes the importance of staying connected to the community it serves. By actively engaging with the local community, the college seeks to understand their needs, involve them in the educational process and contribute positively to the overall well-being of society. This commitment to community engagement helps Heimerer College maintain a strong connection with the people it serves and ensures that its programs remain relevant and responsive to the demands of society.
Heimerer College is a reputable institution of higher education in Pristina, Kosovo, offering comprehensive health education programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. With its focus on quality education, internationalization, national collaboration, clinical practice and community engagement, the college strives to provide students with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to excel in the healthcare field both nationally and internationally.