Integrating ICT Into Precision Agriculture Education: Insights from the IPA Summer School

The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into precision agriculture represents a transformative step toward modernizing agricultural practices through interdisciplinary innovation. This paper explores the outcomes of the “ICT in Precision Agriculture – IPA.UM.SI” International Summer School, hosted by the Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor. The summer school brought together students and experts from diverse financing pathways, including Erasmus, CEEPUS, and Blended Intensive Program (BIP) schemes, fostering a globally inclusive and interdisciplinary learning environment. Participants engaged in hands-on activities with cutting-edge technologies, such as field robots, drones, sensors and data analytics, coupled with lectures and field trips. To assess the educational impact and participants' perspectives, a survey was conducted among attendees, yielding insights into their learning experiences, the effectiveness of interdisciplinary approaches, and the perceived importance of ICT in modern agriculture. Emphasizing experiential and interdisciplinary learning, the program demonstrated how integrating ICT with agriculture equips students with practical skills and an appreciation for the interconnectedness of scientific disciplines. Awarding ECTS credits, the program underscored the educational value of combining technical expertise with sustainable agricultural practices. This paper highlights the summer school's methodologies, survey findings, and its pivotal role in advancing knowledge and skills in precision agriculture through a STEM-integrated approach.