Using artificial intelligence as a tool for life-long learning
At the event entitled ‘Artificial Intelligence Meets Adult Education: Promoting Innovation, Strengthening Skills’, organised by the OeAD on 9 April 2025 in Vienna, participants discussed what the future of adult education could look like. In view of the new AI Act, which is intended to ensure transparency and security as the first comprehensive EU law regulating AI systems, education providers are faced with the challenge of developing clear strategies and minimum standards. At the conference numerous practical examples of how AI can facilitate access to education were presented. Interactive sessions showcased innovative projects, such as AI-supported tools for plain language or self-directed learning. The methods market and networking pools demonstrated that AI can make adult education more diverse, inclusive and accessible.
On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of EPALE (the e-platform for adult education in Europe) and the 25th anniversary of the European Erasmus+ programme for adult education around 100 experts from Austria and German-speaking countries met to discuss the role of artificial intelligence in adult education.
AI skills as a central element of the ‘Union of Skills’
With the Union of Skills the European Commission aims, among other things, to promote digital and technological skills in a systematic manner to strengthen Europe's competitiveness. Against the backdrop of the latest PIAAC study by the OECD, which measures the skills of adults worldwide every ten years, the minister of science Eva-Maria Holzleitner emphasises: ‘The results of the PIAAC study are groundbreaking for adult education – in Austria and in Europe. They provide a valuable basis for national education policy decisions that are closely aligned with European education goals.’
10 years of EPALE & 25 years of Erasmus+: milestones for adult education
‘European initiatives have made adult education increasingly innovative, accessible and sustainable. Artificial intelligence can be a driver for inclusion and innovation. The use of AI-supported learning systems, adaptive learning platforms and digital assistants will provide valuable impetus, particularly in basic education, language learning and continuing vocational education,’ emphasises the OeAD’s managing director Jakob Calice.
As the national agency for Erasmus+ the OeAD has been implementing innovative educational projects and international cooperation in adult education for 25 years. EPALE has been connecting adult educators across Europe for a decade and successfully strengthening the European dimension in adult education.
‘Generative AI is not comparable to the technical tools we have known so far – its use is changing learning and working cultures, opening up new perspectives but it also requires a critical approach,’ said Birgit Aschemann, expert on digital professionalisation, CONEDU, in her keynote speech. Adult education can play an active role in shaping this development: AI can promote inclusion, personalised learning and democratic participation, with independent and critical thinking always at the centre.
