Simulation Pedagogy and the Digital Twin – A Unique Educational Programme is Taking Shape at the Bioeconomy Institute, Aiming for Informed Decision-Making in Cultivation

The first pilot training was held aligning with the growing season, from May to September. It brought together a group of experienced farmers for whom goal-oriented grain cultivation is part of everyday life. With the support of a learning community, familiar decisions related to different growth stages of oats were made not only through field observations but also in a new way—by utilizing diverse data sources, a virtual 3D environment, and a digital twin of the field. 

The digital twin developed within the same project allows users to simulate and test various decisions and their impacts safely, anytime and anywhere. It is based on the APSIM model, refined with measured characteristics of a test field located at the Bioeconomy Campus and tailored to the specific conditions of the Finnish growing season. 

From a pedagogical perspective, the training featured a fictional new farmer, Laura, whom participants supported in making informed decisions for her field. As an example, participants used the digital twin to observe the impact of split fertilisation on oat yield compared to fertilisation applied only in spring. 

“I’m amazed at how accurately a computer can simulate expected yields. Maybe this could really help in the future,” commented pilot training participant Petri Rahkonen, a farmer from Korpitikka Oy. 

In addition to the digital twin, the first training also piloted group-based decision-making. “Participants engaged deeply with the materials and, through discussion, highlighted key insights from various data sources while maintaining a healthy level of critical thinking. The pilot group succeeded in decision-making both in webinars and face-to-face meetings,” said Ulla Heinonen, one of the training designers and a lecturer. 

Based on user feedback from the first pilot, the digital twin is being further developed. At the same time, the second pilot training is being prepared, scheduled to begin at the end of November. 

The second pilot will also take in international participants and broadens the target group to include also service providers, advisors, and students. Alongside group learning, a fully independent study model will also be offered. 

Tiedolla johtamisen osaamisen kehittämisen pilottikoulutukset kehitetään yhteistyössä Jamkin Älymaatalouden soveltavan tutkimuksen tiimin, AOKK:n ja Jamkin Digi & Game Centerin kanssa. Toiminta on osa Finnish Future Farm –hanketta, joka on Euroopan Unionin osarahoittama. Rahoittavana viranomaisena toimii Keski-Suomen Liitto. Hanketta toteuttavat yhdessä Jyväskylän Ammattikorkeakoulu ja Pohjoisen Keski-Suomen ammattiopisto sekä yrityskumppanit. Lue lisää hankkeesta.