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How AI Is Changing the Way We Learn

At this year’s Estonain IGF, called Internet Day, hosted by Henrik Roonemaa, the topic was discussed by Grete Arro (researcher at Tallinn University), Riin Saadjärv (head of educational technology at the Ministry of Education and Research), and Luule Niinesalu (principal of Peetri Kindergarten-Basic School).

They reminded us of something important: AI doesn’t know everything. It can look like it has all the answers, but that’s not true. Just because AI can do a lot, doesn’t mean the user understands it all. That’s why we need to know how it works and always think critically. We can only tell if the answers are right if we already have some background knowledge.

Is School Still Needed in the Age of AI?

Some people wonder if AI makes school less important. But experts say that’s not the case. Technology has always changed, and schools have always adapted. AI is no different. In fact, it gives us a good chance to rethink what school should be and how we measure learning.

If we’re worried that AI can do all the homework, maybe we need to change the homework. Learning is supposed to be hard sometimes. Students need to go through the process themselves. Copying answers isn’t learning.

Should We Ban AI or Smart Devices in School?

Some think banning AI or smart devices will help, but that’s not realistic. Even if schools ban devices during free time, students will still use them in other ways. Instead of banning tools, we should help students build motivation and understand why they are learning.

If kids don’t see the purpose, learning feels like a boring task just to get a good grade. But if they have clear goals, they’ll work toward them—even when it’s tough. Learning doesn’t always have to be fun, but it should feel worthwhile.

Learning Should Start With the Student

Good learning starts with the student’s own goals and needs. That helps them find the right way to learn. School should help kids become independent thinkers, not just people who rely on technology.

That said, we can’t expect teachers to become AI experts overnight. AI can help by giving ideas or helping with planning, but it can’t replace human connection. In the classroom, things like teamwork, problem-solving, and building good habits still need a human touch. And in some subjects, it may be better not to use AI at all.

What Worries Education Experts?

Experts say one of the biggest problems is that many people don’t understand how children’s minds work. A clear example is how we assess students—sometimes tests and grades don’t really help kids learn.

There’s also too much content and not enough time, so learning becomes just a race to finish the curriculum. That leads to cramming for tests instead of deep learning. In the long run, this hurts everyone. And AI, unfortunately, makes it easier to cheat.

Learning is hard work, and assessments should focus on growth and understanding, not just memorizing facts.

A Look to the Future

We’re also excited about the AI-jump program (in Estonian: TI-hüpe), which could bring big improvements to learning in Estonia. With strong support from the ministry, schools, students, and families, we’re hopeful this will become a great Estonian success story that helps more young people grow and learn.