The CoLaB project, part of the EhLSa programme (development, implementation and integration of hybrid teaching/learning scenarios, funded by the Stiftung Innovation in der Hochschullehre), stands for "Community Lehrer*innenbildung an der BUW". Over the course of three years, a virtual learning space was developed for students aiming to become teachers, which not only provides content but also enables individual learning experiences. The main aim of the project was to create a motivating and lively environment in which learning processes can be customised and collaboration between students is encouraged.

The result is EOLA - the virtual place of discovery for the teaching profession, which goes far beyond a mere provision of learning materials. Students move through a setting reminiscent of a multiplayer video game as avatars of their own choosing. Content is not consumed, but explored in a playful way - surrounded by an inspiring environment that invites you to linger, reflect and try things out.

Students decide for themselves when and how they go through learning paths without losing the structure. Interactive elements - small challenges, reflection impulses, micro-learning steps - help them to consciously control their learning process. Integrated group work should not feel like an annoying "online task" for the students in this scenario, but as a natural part of the room logic. In this way, the space helps to break down barriers and negotiate roles.

Of course, you don't create a learning space like this on the spur of the moment. The didactic concept is challenging because it focuses less on linear knowledge transfer and more on an experiential concept. But that is precisely what makes the difference: EOLA helps to move away from simply "explaining" and towards facilitating learning experiences.

EOLA and other virtual learning spaces should generally not be seen as competition to face-to-face teaching, but as a consciously designed supplement. Some topics may be better discussed in a physical space - the digital space, on the other hand, enables new approaches: exploration, individual deepening, reflection, co-creation and last but not least - fun.