In our current and ever-changing digital age, online self-learning has become essential in enhancing vocational education and training (VET). A core challenge in VET is the creation of learning content that can be easily absorbed by the trainees, who are often busy industry professionals, while bringing about the desired changes in knowledge, skills and competences required in modern working environments. This challenge becomes even greater when it concerns the application of advanced, deep tech technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, in different sectors of our economy.

To this end, this paper presents an innovative approach to the integration of technologies for the development of open educational resources (OERs), and more specifically, the development of interactive simulation scenarios. The proposed blend of technologies is aimed at increasing the engagement and retaining the attention of the trainees throughout their learning journey, thus leading to a more productive and fruitful VET experience.

The technology stack used in this work combines the Opigno Drupal-based learning management system (LMS) with a transparent integration of the H5P tool, providing an engaging and interactive learning and assessment experience, as well as a solid ground for reflection and improvement. The key innovation, however, lies in the integration of online simulation scenarios into the LMS, whereby we have incorporated the power of Jupyter Books (https://jupyterbook.org/) within the H5P tool, hence enabling the platform to act as a live, python code-based simulation tool. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a simulation tool like Jupyter Books has been integrated with H5P content on the Opigno platform. Through this integration, a user is able to execute sophisticated machine-learning algorithms directly in the LMS environment and in real-time, with the content being presented in a simple yet attractive manner. This integrated platform further enables the execution of “what-if” scenarios, a feature that has received very positive feedback by industry professionals.

Our paper discusses the implementation of this technology stack integration in two recent Erasmus+ projects, namely HoReCa5.0 (2022-1-BG01-KA220-VET-000089399) and Block4SME (2023-1-CY01-KA220-VET-000151955). These projects have created comprehensive OERs that cater to the specific needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the supply chain management (SCM) and hospitality sectors. The Block4SME project addresses the need for SME staff to understand and effectively use blockchain technology in SCM, while HoReCa 5.0 focuses on the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the hospitality sector.

The methodologies employed for the creation of the OERs and simulation scenarios, the challenges encountered, and the strategies used to overcome these challenges are analysed and critiqued throughout this paper. The broader implications of this work for the VET domain, including enhanced digital competences, improved industry practices, and alignment with the European Commission's priorities for digital education, are also highlighted.

To conclude, this work demonstrates the potential of technology-enhanced OERs for transforming education and training, particularly in deep tech domains, making high-quality learning resources open and accessible to all, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.

Keywords: Technology-enhanced, stack, development, interactive, simulation, digital, vocational, competences, projects, AI, blockchain, H5P, LMS, VET, OERs, Jupyter, Opigno.