Estonian Universities Adjust Teaching as Artificial Intelligence Gains Influence

Estonian universities are undergoing significant changes due to the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on education. While none of them plan to close any curricula, teaching processes are being actively adjusted to the new technologies.

At the University of Tartu, an AI ambassador program was launched earlier this year to advise on updating curricula for the AI era. According to Vice Rector Aune Valk, there are three key aspects: how AI changes curriculum content, what should be taught more or less; teaching students to use AI in a field-specific manner; and developing critical thinking and professional competencies in the age of AI.

Tallinn University has also seen AI affect its admissions process. Motivation letters have been replaced with motivation videos or other written tasks that AI cannot easily generate. First-year students take an introductory course covering AI topics, including ethical use.

At the Estonian University of Life Sciences, each curriculum decides which AI tools to use based on need. If a broad need emerges, the institution discusses, develops, and implements or purchases the appropriate tools.

The question of a central AI action plan or code of conduct remains debated. Tallinn University supports such a plan, noting that lecturers seek broader support. However, Kaire Eerik, head of the higher education department at the Ministry of Education and Research, stated that Estonia does not plan to create a separate central plan because universities have academic autonomy.