How can vocational education move beyond the AI hype and develop a sustainable approach to artificial intelligence in teaching and learning? To explore this question, The Dutch Alliance organised a study visit to Tallinn, Estonia, bringing together representatives from eight Dutch VET colleges.
During the visit, participants explored how Estonia is embedding AI and digitalisation throughout its education system. Meetings with organisations such as AI Leap, Opiq, HARNO and the Engineering Academy provided valuable insights into national strategies, digital learning environments and the role of AI in vocational education.
A recurring theme throughout the programme was that AI is not primarily a technological challenge, but an educational one. Rather than restricting AI, institutions need to help students and teachers develop the skills to use it critically, responsibly and effectively.
The study visit combined expert sessions, school visits and collaborative workshops. Together, participants developed a shared framework to support the implementation of AI within their own institutions. Discussions focused on leadership, professional development, ethics, digital literacy and the changing role of teachers in an AI-driven world.
Several key messages emerged:
- AI requires active leadership and a clear educational vision.
- Digital literacy should be developed throughout the entire learning journey.
- Teachers need time, training and space to experiment with AI.
- Ethical considerations and human judgement must remain central.
- Collaboration between institutions strengthens innovation and accelerates learning.
The visit concluded with a strong reminder from Estonian educational psychologist Grete Arro:
“Education is the suit. AI is only a button.”
The study visit marks another step in The Dutch Alliance’s commitment to supporting innovation, knowledge sharing and future-oriented vocational education. The insights gained in Tallinn continue to inform discussions and developments around AI within participating institutions.
