How could conversational AI support learning in vocational education? In the VET2Sustain project, we piloted an interactive learning scenario on the ThingLink platform, where students progressed through the stages of selecting and changing engine oil for a passenger car, as well as customer service tasks, guided by a conversational AI assistant.
The pilot received encouraging feedback. According to teachers, the solution was easy to use and provided a smooth learning experience. Students found the task useful, as it helped them understand the steps involved in an engine oil change and the importance of occupational safety. One student described the experience by saying: “The task was easy to stay focused on, and its length was appropriate.” The AI was also praised for its ability to answer questions, provide additional information, and stay within the defined content area.
From Pilot to Practical Teaching
Based on the pilot, similar solutions could have a role in vocational education in the future, for example as a support tool in workshop-based learning. At the same time, we learned that educational modules should be designed as small and clearly structured units.
Overall, the development of the scenario progressed well, although designing AI-guided interactions was at times more challenging than expected. The work became easier when the content was carefully focused on one work phase at a time. The more precisely the content was defined, the more consistently the guidance functioned. The pilot also demonstrated that realistic and practice-oriented implementations provide the strongest support for learning.
VET2Sustain promotes sustainable, inclusive, and digital vocational education in Europe by integrating the green transition, digitalisation, and cooperation between educational institutions and working life into learning.