A Scalable Learning Factory Concept for Interdisciplinary Engineering Education: Insights from a Case Implementation

This paper presents a concept for a Learning Factory (LF) designed for interdisciplinary engineering education. Learning factories are experiential learning environments that bridge the gap between theory and practice while supporting the demands of digital transformation. The proposed LF concept was developed using an integrated approach that assessed stakeholder needs and reviewed institutional infrastructure and capacity. These inputs were triangulated into a concept consisting of five core thematic components: Lean processes as an educational anchor, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, Internet of Things (IoT)-based integration, simulation, and physical prototyping. Validation workshops with Small- and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) managers, academic experts, and students confirmed the perceived relevance of this structure and its potential. The resulting concept focuses on practice-orientated, team-based learning methods that are in line with the principles of Education 4.0. The design sets goals in four key dimensions: educational integration, technological readiness, industrial relevance with SME orientation and flexibility and scalability. These design principles and practical insights can be utilized for future academic implementations of learning factories.