Dynamic webinar “Smart Learning with AI – How Technologies are Shaping Education” was held on 23 April 2025, as part of the AI4VET4AI project.
Panel discussion brought together diverse perspectives from Silvia Cosimato, Professor at the University of Naples “Federico II” (UNINA); Francisco Javier García Gómez, expert in Vocational Education and Training (VET) from Inercia Digital; and Obren Kušić, AI graduate (Fontys University of Applied Sciences) from AFA, which also was the technical organiser of this online event.
Discussion explored how AI is reshaping educational environments, addressing both its potential and the pressing challenges it presents. Key questions included: What role does AI play in shaping modern learning? How are students, teachers, and VET institutions experiencing this transformation? What are the practical, pedagogical, and academic implications of using smart technologies in education?
Recurring theme was the importance of ensuring that AI tools complement human expertise rather than replace it. One of the conclusions was that students need guidance to engage their minds first – using AI as a tool to support exploration, not as a shortcut. Speakers emphasised that although AI can reduce research time, often by as much as 90%, there is a risk in relying on it too passively.
They warned of the ease with which we may fall into the trap of outsourcing our thinking, stressing that AI should be treated like a study partner, not a substitute.
In addition to ChatGPT, tools such as NotebookLM (Google), Gemini, Perplexity, Claude, and DeepSeek can provide valuable support if used consciously, especially when students are working on complex assignments requiring visuals, explanations, or structured arguments.
Choice of tools often depends on age group, much like with social media, and teenagers tend to use them in a more casual manner, treating them like messaging platforms, asking quick questions, and even joking with the interface. Challenge lies in guiding students from casual use to meaningful engagement.
Webinar concluded with a lively Q&A session and closing reflections, underlining the need for educators to define clear research directions and provide students with high-quality sources. As the speakers agreed, AI holds great potential to act as a catalyst for deeper learning if learners are encouraged to remain mentally active and intellectually curious throughout the process.
Missed it? Watch the full recording below:
AI4VET4AI is an EU-funded project under the Erasmus+ programme, bringing together 26 partners from 11 countries.
