READCO.AI visits Varna Free University

12 June 2025

The Department of Informatics at Varna Free University hosts the international team of the innovative European project READCO.AI, which brings together researchers from five institutions in four countries – Friedrich-Alexander University in Erlangen (Germany), Attica University (Greece), Anadolu University (Turkey) and the Temeli Language Center in Athens. The READCO.AI platform was developed to promote critical thinking and empathy through interactive dialogues with artificial intelligence agents and engaging animated stories. The educational resources are tailored to the needs of learners at B2 level and are offered in six languages, including Bulgarian, with the possibility of integration into the classroom.

Two seminars were held at Varna Free University, which brought together lecturers, students and specialists in the field of language learning and psychology. At 1:30 p.m. Representatives from Anadolu University, Turkey, presented the project toolkit and gave a lecture on Prompt Engineering. They highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence, increasing AI literacy and presented accessible approaches to using key generative technologies in an educational context. An in-depth discussion on the advantages and challenges of different AI tools in real-world scenarios followed.

At 3:30 p.m., researchers from the Temeli Language and Research Center shared their stories that convey the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals through interactive storytelling. The seminar provided an opportunity for professional exchange between linguists and psychologists on the impact of stories on the development of language and social skills.
The READCO.AI project aims not only to improve reading comprehension, but also to develop students’ skills for moral reasoning, empathy and active participation in socially relevant topics. Among the key goals of the project are the development of innovative pedagogy with artificial intelligence, the development of adapted learning resources, including a MOOC programme for teachers, as well as a practical guide for conducting a dialogue with AI.