4 exemplary applications in education

Izmir University of Economics (IUE), which has created a student-centered next-generation learning model by producing exemplary projects in the fields of digitalization and artificial intelligence in Turkey, has launched 4 new applications. Aiming to facilitate and accelerate students' learning processes, IUE has introduced EcoPost, EcoPlan, EkoBot, and the GCRIS Smart Chatbot, all powered by AI, for use by students and academics. Speaking at the meeting titled ‘Step by Step to the Summit in Digital Transformation’, IUE Rector Prof. Dr. Yusuf Hakan Abacıoğlu said, “We will use technology as a tool to transform life, make student-centered education more effective, and produce high-quality information to benefit society.”

A promotional meeting introducing the new applications, which aim to increase digital productivity at Izmir University of Economics and provide technological solutions to students, academics, and administrative staff, was held in the university conference hall with a large turnout. Asst. Prof. Dr. Esin Çağlayan, Director of IUE's Teaching and Learning Center (EKOEĞITIM), delivered a detailed presentation on EcoPost and EcoPlan, explaining frequently asked questions. Asst. Prof. Dr. Ayça Kumluca Topallı from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering introduced EkoBot. The presentation on the GCRIS Smart Chatbot was delivered by Research Ecosystems founder, Prof. Dr. Tuğkan Tuğlular from Department of Computer Engineering, Izmir Institute of Technology and Gültekin Gürdal, Director of Department of Library and Documentation, who collaborated with the team to develop the chatbot.

“SINGLE-POINT ACCESS”

IUE Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Aslı Ceylan Öner shared details about the MyIEU platform, which has been in use across the University for a while. Noting that all 4 new applications are integrated into this system, Prof. Dr. Öner said, “MyIEU is a platform designed for our students, faculty, and staff. Our goal is to make university life easier and more efficient. MyIEU allows easy, single-point access to all 4 applications. Users can also follow University news, announcements, manage their calendars, and quickly access important information.”

“WE MUST RESPOND TO TECHNOLOGICAL NEEDS”

During his opening remarks, Rector Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu emphasized that the University has taken serious steps towards technology and digitalization by implementing a ‘Smart Campus’ concept. Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu said, “Universities must integrate new technologies into their systems and respond to technological needs. If creative and transformative solutions are desired for a sustainable future, universities must take the lead. The applications we’ve introduced reflect our planned and strategic transformation. At the same time, I can say that we have created an effective model. We will continue on our path with the goal of leading in digital transformation.”

“WE ARE MAKING AN AWARENESS CALL”

Emphasizing the University’s commitment to developing new software and projects, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu said, “Artificial inyetlligent systems must find practical application in daily life. Rules governing human-AI interaction must be defined. AI should be used efficiently and ethically. This promotional event also serves as a call for awareness on these matters. We are making this call as a University. Thankfully, our institution already possesses this awareness. Technology is crucial for transforming life, improving student-centered education, and producing high-quality knowledge for society. We will continue using technology in line with this vision. Today's meeting also signals the upcoming projects we will implement.”

“THE FIRST AI-INTEGRATED CHATBOT”

Sharing further details about the GCRIS Smart Chatbot and thanking Prof. Dr. Tuğlular and his team, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu said, “The GCRIS Smart Chatbot, now available for use at our University, is the first AI-integrated chatbot application in the world. We contributed significantly to the optimization process of this tool. That’s why we chose to launch it at our University. I congratulate and thank all the valuable teams who helped bring EcoPost, EcoPlan, EkoBot, and the GCRIS Smart Chatbot to life.”

HERE ARE THE NEW APPLICATIONS

EkoBot, a smart software with Turkish and English support, will assist students at Izmir University of Economics as a virtual advisor. It uses advanced large language models to provide quick and accurate answers to students' questions. Thanks to this app, students no longer need to reach out to academic advisors or administrative staff for questions about classes, registration, or exams. Drawing on Turkish and English information from IUE’s regulations and web portal, EkoBot will be available 24/7. Developed through the prototype work of Asst. Prof. Dr. Ayça Kumluca Topallı and the thesis of graduate student Egecan Çetin, EkoBot is a first in Turkey.

DIFFERENT DEPARTMENTS, ONE PLATFORM

EcoPost also is a smart software platform developed by the University where users can share innovative ideas, project proposals, and calls for support. With interest-based filters, users can quickly access relevant content. The platform brings together academic and administrative staff, and students in a shared digital space to promote collaboration, establish new connections, and strengthen a participatory culture within the University. EcoPost emerged from a multi-stakeholder project involving collaboration between students, faculty, and administrative staff.

EASIER TASK MANAGEMENT

EcoPlan was developed to more effectively manage duties and workflows at the University and increase productivity. It allows academic and administrative processes to be planned and monitored digitally with greater transparency. The application enables task delegation, simplifies calendar and progress tracking, facilitates file and document sharing, and strengthens team communication and collaboration. Developed by the IUE Teaching and Learning Center, EcoPlan aims to improve workflows at both the individual and institutional levels.

‘AI’ SUPPORT

The GCRIS Database is an academic archive built to compile, organize, and share all academic outputs related to research activities in accordance with international standards. It goes beyond just research outputs and includes projects and laboratory equipment, enabling advanced reporting and supporting strategic institutional decision-making. To make this rich data more accessible and user-friendly, the GCRIS Smart Chatbot was developed. This innovative digital assistant, powered by AI and natural language processing, enables fast access to essential information for academics, researchers, and administrators. The GCRIS Smart Chatbot, which can also be integrated into institutional decision-making processes, saves time in strategic planning and enhances research visibility and collaboration. Far more than just a search engine, the GCRIS Smart Chatbot is an intelligent environment that makes the research ecosystem more transparent and interactive.