AI as a study buddy: the future of learning has arrived
28 February 2025
We've all used ChatGPT to help brainstorm ideas, plan out our day, or help with work or study assignments. Now, imagine if using ChatGPT was essential to your schoolwork. That's exactly what will play out in Estonia, as it's set to become the first country in the world to fully integrate AI into its national education system with the launch of TI-Hüpe (AI Leap) in September 2025.
This move will redefine how students study, think, and prepare for the future. Partnering with OpenAI, the government will introduce ChatGPT Edu, a custom-built AI learning tool, to 20,000 high-school students and 3,000 teachers, with expansion to vocational schools the following year.
Aiming to personalise learning, support teachers, and strengthen AI literacy, the new tools will offer real-time tutoring, automated feedback, and study assistance. Teachers will get AI-driven administrative support, such as lesson planning and grading automation, reducing workload and freeing up time for more interactive teaching.
While that may sound very positive, Gert Jervan, dean of the Faculty of Computer Science at Tallinn University of Technology, has noted educators may struggle to get used to the new systems. Training programmes alone may not be enough to help teachers use the tools effectively. An additional challenge is AI systems' limited understanding of the Estonian language.
The big step does involve risks and concerns. Firstly, in terms of responsible use of AI, to ensure students don't rely on AI to do their work rather than developing their own critical thinking skills. Schools will need to establish clear guidelines on ethical AI use, ensuring it supports learning rather than replacing independent thought.
Another core concern is security. UNESCO has previously warned that such systems, while improving efficiency, also introduce risks related to privacy, surveillance, and control over student information. The Estonian government has thus pledged to maintain strict data security measures and ensure compliance with GDPR regulations, such as implementing firewalls – cybersecurity measures that block unauthorised access to networks and systems. However, questions remain about whether private partners like OpenAI will have access to student data, and how that data will be used.
 | Emily Mirelle Vutt Across Europe, several countries are experimenting with AI in education, including the GenAI4ED project in Italy, Spain, Greece, and the UK, which is testing AI-assisted learning in selected regions. In Finland, AI-powered adaptive learning tools are being piloted to tailor education to individual student needs, helping those who struggle with traditional learning methods. However, countries remain cautious of large-scale implementation. In Germany, AI-driven teaching assistants have been introduced in some classrooms, but worries about compliance with GDPR regulations and concerns about student data security have slowed widespread adoption. Many countries lack the digital infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and teacher training programs needed for effective AI integration. |
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