From Needs Analysis to Training: Building AI Literacy Among VET Teachers in Slovakia

Abstract

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into education and the labour market, enhancing teachers’ AI literacy has become crucial, particularly in vocational education and training (VET). Within the Erasmus+ project VETAssIst – Artificial Intelligence as VET Teacher Assistant (No. 2024-1-HU01-KA220-VET-000253387), we conducted a national online survey to examine Slovak VET teachers’ experiences with and attitudes towards AI use in teaching and learning. Using a Google Forms questionnaire, we gathered responses from 208 teachers across various VET disciplines, complemented by 38 in-depth qualitative interviews. The findings revealed significant gaps in AI literacy, digital skills, and technical readiness, both at the teacher and institutional levels. Drawing on these findings, we created customised professional development sessions that helped teachers build digital skills and gain confidence in applying AI within their classrooms. So far, 78 VET teachers have participated in these training sessions. The paper highlights key outcomes of these initiatives, including improvements in teachers’ ability to integrate AI tools into lesson planning, assessment, and classroom management. The study underscores the need for systemic support and sustained professional development to prepare VET educators, and indeed all teachers, for the challenges and opportunities presented by AI driven education.