Mindful Tech: Ethical AI Solutions
The focus of DigiEduHack Hungary 2025 is the design and development of ethical artificial intelligence solutions aimed at supporting learners in managing the overload and distractions caused by the flood of information in digital educational environments. The complexity and stimulus-rich nature of today’s digital learning environments often leads to cognitive overload and loss of focus, which may hinder effective learning and mental well-being. We expect the development of innovative AI-based tools and applications that promote users’ autonomy and awareness while ensuring the lawful and transparent use of data.
- It is critically important that the solutions do not employ any “dark” or manipulative techniques, thus excluding the risk of addiction and negative effects on mental health. The developments should support the personal growth and goals of users, uphold digital equity, and respect user autonomy and personal values.
- Throughout the challenge, participants will not only create innovative technological solutions but also gain deep experience in implementing ethical design principles, contributing to the development of sustainable and responsible digital learning environments.
Questions?
kata.kovacs@edutechhungary.com
Who can join?
Specific conditions to apply
To ensure meaningful participation and collaboration, the following conditions apply for applicants to our hackathon:
Eligibility: Open to students currently enrolled in Hungarian universities (BA/BSc, MA/MSc, or PhD level).
Minimum Age: Participants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
Team Composition: Participants may apply individually or in teams (2–5 members). Interdisciplinary teams are highly encouraged (e.g. tech, design, psychology, education, social sciences). Individual applicants will be assigned to teams after the application deadline.
Background Sought: We welcome participants with a passion for ethical technology, digital well-being, AI development, UX/UI design, or human-centered innovation.
Language: Working language of the hackathon is Hungarian, so at least one team member must be comfortable translating in English.
15 - 16 NOV 2025
Register by 31 OCTLanguage(s) of the hackathon
Hungarian
Onsite
Budapest - Hungary
Access and Availability
Challenge and goals
The primary goal of DigiEduHack Hungary 2025 is to create innovative, ethical AI-based solutions that effectively reduce cognitive overload and digital distractions for learners in education. Participants will develop tools and applications that support users’ autonomy, awareness, and promote digital well-being while fully respecting data protection and transparency principles.
Through the challenge, participants will:
- understand critical components of ethical AI design
- acquire principles of responsible technology development and apply them creatively to real problems
- get familiar with AI tools and development
- utilize design thinking principles and innovative development methodologies and tools
- develop teamwork, presentation, and problem-solving skills in realistic settings through designing, prototyping, and pitching their solutions
As a result, teams are expected to present tangible prototypes or concepts that can be integrated into educational environments, support learner focus, and uphold the ethical expectations of autonomy, fairness, and mental health preservation. The hackathon experience contributes to participants’ professional growth and inspires sustainable and community-oriented educational technology innovation.
Expectations and requirements for the solutions and participants
- We expect participants to actively engage throughout the entire event (2.5 days), working in teams to develop AI-based solutions that address digital overload and distractions in learning environments.
- No prior IT knowledge is required, but openness and willingness to innovate are essential.
- Solutions must adhere primarily to ethical principles: preserving user autonomy, ensuring transparency in data usage, and avoiding manipulative “dark” patterns.
- Teams are required to prepare a working prototype or concept and a clear presentation by the end of the hackathon.
- Active participation in supporting lectures, mentoring sessions, feedback rounds, and presentations is mandatory to ensure truly effective work.
Available Support
- The Hungarian EdTech Coalition provides professional background and continuous mentoring throughout the event. Our experienced mentors assist teams with AI and ethical design issues, supporting creative and responsible development.
- On Friday evening at the opening event, participants will have the opportunity to observe a professional pitch competition, learn about effective presentation techniques, ask questions, and build their professional networks.
- Additionally, lectures, joint workshops, individual support, and technical consultations are available to help teams confidently advance in prototype development and presentation.