Engineering Usable Digital Twins - Summer School
Mandatory prerequisites
Two years of studies at university level (equivalent to 120 ECTS) within a relevant field of study, this also includes Computer Science and Data Science, before the summer school starts.
The course requires basic skills within: Programming (Python or R), mathematics and statistics
Content
Digital Twins and data-driven simulation are transforming how we design, monitor, and optimize complex systems. This course introduces students to the principles and practices of human-centric design in the context of simulation and Digital Twins. The focus is on integrating human factors, usability, and interpretability into the development of simulation models and Digital Twin systems to ensure they are not only technically accurate but also understandable, and actionable, for decision-makers.
Students will learn how to combine data-driven approaches with domain expertise to create models that support real-world decision-making in engineering, healthcare, manufacturing, and smart systems.
Topics include:
- Fundamentals of Digital Twins
- Human-centric design principles for simulation and visualization
- Data-driven modeling and integration of expert knowledge
- Digital Twins and explainable AI for simulation
- Case studies in smart manufacturing, healthcare, logistics and transportation
Learning objectives - Knowledge
After the course participants will be able to:
- Demonstrate understanding of Digital Twin concepts and their applications
- Explain principles of human-centric design and usability in simulation systems
- Understand methods for integrating data-driven models with expert knowledge
- Describe approaches for visualization and interpretability in simulation-based decision support
Learning objectives - Skills
After the course participants will be able to:
- Design simulation workflows that prioritize human interpretability and usability
- Apply techniques for building data-driven Digital Twins on real-world data
- Evaluate the effectiveness of human-centric design in simulation systems
Learning objectives - Competences
After the course participants will be able to:
- Combine technical modeling skills with human-centered design principles
- Critically assess Digital Twin solutions for usability
- Collaborate across disciplines to create simulation systems that support informed decisions
Teaching Method
Lectures, Workshops and Labs
Examination regulations
Exam regulations
Examination is held
Tests
Exam
EKA
Description
The examination is based on an overall assessment of:
- Attendance on 80% of the learning activities.
- Written exam (MCQ : 2 Hours)
Form of examination
Censorship
Grading
Identification
Language
ECTS value
Additional exam information
Course Responsible
| Name | Department | |
|---|---|---|
| Mikkel Baun Kjærgaard | mbkj@mmmi.sdu.dk | SDU Software Engineering |
| Sofie Birch | sbirch@tek.sdu.dk | TEK Uddannelseskoordinering og -support |
Programme Secretary
Internal Course Code
Offered in
URL for Skemaplan
Number of lessons
Additional information
Enrollment is limited to 40 students. If more applicants than places, applicants who meet the mandatory requirements are prioritised according to the below selection criteria:
- Undergraduate and graduate students from partner universities (exchange); international undergraduate and graduate guest students (fee-paying); undergraduate and graduate students from other Danish universities.
- Ph.D students from partner universities and other international Ph.D. students; other applicants.
- Students are prioritised on a first come, first served basis, i.e. according to the time we receive your complete application.
In case a course is filled up, we try to offer you an alternative course from your list of priorities. All final decisions about admission will be sent out continually.