How AI Accelerates the Development of Learning and Pedagogy

Artificial intelligence (AI) has significant impacts on teaching and learning. It is beneficial for all teachers and educators to familiarise themselves with the opportunities and challenges AI presents, so they can navigate the evolving landscape influenced by the rapid development of generative AI. It is essential that training related to AI does not focus solely on applications and tools but also provides support for the pedagogical use of AI in education.

But what does this mean in practice? We asked Jukka Lehtoranta, a class teacher and ICT subject teacher specialising in the use of AI in education.

Tell us about yourself and your background

Hello, I’m Jukka Lehtoranta, with a background as a class teacher and ICT subject teacher. Alongside my regular teaching work, I gradually transitioned into training teachers. Today, my work involves visiting schools and educational institutions across Finland, training education professionals in the use of AI. My audience is very diverse, ranging from preschool groups to organisational leaders. Additionally, I am working on my doctoral thesis on teaching in the age of AI.

Where does your interest in AI and its use in education come from?

Digital technology has always fascinated me, especially in relation to digital pedagogy and its potential in teaching. The most significant technological advancements in recent years have been in AI, particularly its dual role in background algorithms that influence us, as well as the content-generating models. This is especially intriguing in the context of education, raising many questions: how should we approach this development, and above all, how should we communicate about it to learners?

The development of generative AI has led to a variety of training courses entering the market. What do you, as a trainer, consider important in AI-related training?

I value trainers who have a teaching background, as it means they are familiar with the environment and can focus on the most relevant aspects. I also believe it is crucial to teach beyond just tools and usage skills, as the broader changes AI enables for learning and pedagogy are, in my view, more significant. Training should meet current needs: sometimes it involves broad concepts, while at other times, it delves into specific themes such as AI literacy or the use of AI within a particular subject area.

What do you think are the next steps in the development of AI use in education?

Currently, one of the main challenges in using AI in education is the limited availability of services suitable for those under 18. Additionally, AI services are becoming more deeply integrated into all operating systems and platforms. For educational use, this opens up new possibilities but also means that challenges are constantly present across all age groups. Research has already identified several ways AI can genuinely support the development of learners’ skills by offering guidance and suggestions to aid their thinking rather than providing ready-made answers. However, implementing these methods is not always straightforward.

What would you say to teachers who have not yet explored AI?

My favourite saying is: “Small steps in the right direction.” AI development represents a massive shift in the long run, but there’s no need to change everything in one’s teaching at once. It’s enough to take small, manageable steps forward and embrace AI in a way that makes pedagogical sense.

Author: Tiina Ruuska, HY+

Leave a comment

University of Helsinki Centre for Continuing Education HY+

University of Helsinki Centre for Continuing Education HY+

P.O. Box 53 (Fabianinkatu 32)

FI-00014 University of Helsinki


Switchboard: +358 294 1911

Our Finnish website: hyplus.helsinki.fi

Privacy Policy


UniVisits

UniVisits are targeted to professionals in diverse fields wishing to learn state-of-the-art know-how in their own area. Based on the expertise of the eleven faculties of the University of Helsinki, we design customised programmes to meet the needs of each visit group.


To learn more, pay a visit to our UniVisit pages:

Eduvisit.fi

Forestvisit.fi

Admissionvisit.fi

Don't hesitate to contact us

Our training approach acknowledges state-of-the-art research-based evidence in adult learning. Progress is based on the cumulative learning of individuals and organisations.

We believe in empowerment, collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Contact us!