Learn Ziel

Hina Firdaus is pursuing her Master's in Human-Computer Interaction at the University of Siegen. Learn Ziel is an educational technology platform that emerged from Hina's experience as a lecturer and is specifically aimed at students with learning difficulties.

Can you briefly describe what your startup is about?

My startup is a platform for educational technology. I have taught computer science and engineering as a lecturer at a technical university for more than four years. So, I know the work in the education sector. And during all that experience, I've encountered many learning problems. For example, there are different types of learners that need to be considered. That's why I developed the Learn Ziel platform.
The app is not only for people who learn very actively and purposefully but especially for people who suffer from various types of developmental disorders that make it very difficult for them to follow normal lectures or digital learning materials. So, the idea behind it is to help them experience online learning in a better way by enabling them to concentrate on what they've started and bring it to a focused completion.

How exactly did you come up with this name?

Originally, it was the "Institute of the Elements" where I worked, an idea aimed at providing all the elements of learning. Later, I renamed it to "Learn Ziel". The term "Ziel" (goal) is very concise and suggests a clear focus.

Who is the target audience of Learn Ziel?

Our current market segment mainly targets individuals aged 18 to 45 and above. We currently do not offer certification courses, and this is not expected to change in the next five years. However, we may later try to expand our offerings to include additional certification courses to also appeal to working professionals.
So, our primary focus is currently on this age group, although younger people are of course also welcome. However, their needs differ significantly from those of our main target groups. Younger people are still motivated in school and receive a controlled learning environment, but that's not the case for adult learners. Discipline is a big keyword here, which is also required for adult learners. Another focus of our platform is on adult learners with ADHD, ADD, or other disorders and illnesses that affect their concentration.

Is there financial support? And is there a network you can collaborate with?

In our incubator and accelerator program, there are only two or three startups in the education sector that are still in an early stage. Therefore, the available network is rather limited. In the last two months, I have started to specifically approach individuals specializing in networking businesses. I recognize the added value that this targeted approach brings compared to a general approach. Unfortunately, participation is difficult since I am a student and financial resources are limited. This limits my ability to be active in this area. It's regrettable that funding would be possible if I were resident here, but I'm still trying to pursue my course. Nevertheless, I receive a lot of attention and the opportunity to attend events and speak there. Even if my field of study is not always the right one, I can at least gain insights into the business landscape, which I personally appreciate. Another important aspect of our program is the coaching and training we regularly receive. From developing business models to improving sales and marketing to designing pitches – it's not just about financial support but also about continuous learning. This is of great importance to me.

Are there other people helping you with the startup?

Yes, I have the opportunity to seek assistance. However, at the moment, I choose to handle many things on my own as this is also a valuable learning opportunity for me. I am capable of making decisions myself and, if necessary, hiring freelancers to perform certain tasks. Nevertheless, I appreciate the help I have received and am aware that I can rely on a network of supporters if needed. That's very encouraging.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced or are currently facing?

There are many limitations for me due to visa issues and other obstacles. It would be nice to have more freedom alongside my studies. My professional career is closely linked to my startup, for which I am also writing my master's thesis. It frustrates me that I cannot apply for financial support for my scholarship. Therefore, I have considered registering my startup in India. Sometimes I feel like opportunities are being missed here. However, if I acquire citizenship, I may have more freedom, but that takes time. So, I have to decide: stay patient here or go back to my home country and implement my plan there. I am also considering the Make-it-Germany option, a program for starting a business in Germany.

What are your next goals?

My next goal is to complete my master's thesis with good grades and then apply for a doctoral degree here at the University of Siegen. I plan to complete my Ph.D. and possibly work as a postdoc afterwards. Additionally, I will be working on the development of Learn Ziel.

This portrait is based on an interview with Hina Firdaus and was written by Antonia Blumberg.

Here for the startup's homepage.