AI in Education: From Personalisation to Oral Exams
amsterdam, vrijdag, 13 juni 2025.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming education through personalised learning, automation, and innovative technologies. Teachers and educators are using AI to optimise processes and enhance the learning experience. However, the application of AI also brings ethical concerns and implementation challenges. Recent research indicates that some students use AI to strengthen their critical thinking skills, while others are more critical. Teachers are encouraged to adapt assessment methods, possibly by increasing oral exams, to ensure the integrity of education.
Personalisation in Education
AI contributes to a more personalised learning experience for students. By analysing large datasets, AI can provide insights into individual learning needs and styles, enabling teachers to make targeted interventions. For example, in secondary and vocational education institutions, AI is used to increase the efficiency and fairness of education [1]. The Reference Framework 2.0 offers clear guidelines for the responsible use of study data and AI in education, with attention to ethical and legal frameworks [5].
Automation of Administrative Tasks
AI assists teachers in grading assignments faster and more fairly, reducing the time previously spent on manual grading. This gives teachers more time to focus on the quality of teaching and personal student support [1]. Additionally, platforms such as Onderwijs-ai.nl provide concrete approaches for integrating AI into lesson preparation and feedback organisation [2].
Ethical Issues and Challenges
However, the application of AI in education also raises ethical issues and implementation challenges. There are concerns about the misuse of AI, leading to the development of detection tools, although these do not always provide a complete solution [1]. The Reference Framework 2.0 emphasises the importance of clear responsibilities and a dynamic approach where discussions about values and legislation are ongoing [5].
Impact on Critical Thinking
Recent research shows that some students use AI to enhance their critical thinking skills. For instance, students at the University of Gothenburg use generative AI (GenAI) to strengthen their critical thinking, while others are more critical [4]. Researchers at the Radboud Teaching and Learning Centre (TLC) have not yet reached a scientific consensus on the impact of GenAI on students’ critical thinking skills [4].
Adapting Assessment Methods
Teachers are encouraged to adapt assessment methods to ensure the integrity of education. Possible adjustments include more oral exams or explicit indications of how students have used AI. The National Education Lab AI (NOLAI) investigates the use of AI in primary and secondary education and develops educational tools to assist teachers in the controlled use of GenAI [4].
Practical Examples and Future Perspectives
Successful practical applications of AI in education include the use of chatbots for language and spelling checks, text improvement, and exploration of philosophical positions [4]. The course ‘AI for Education - Complete’ at Fontys provides educational professionals with hands-on experience in generative AI, data usage, and ethical aspects, without requiring specific IT experience [6]. On Friday, 26 September 2025, Kennisnet, in collaboration with the PO-Raad, VO-raad, and SIVON, will host the second edition of OnderwijsInzicht Focus, which will focus entirely on AI in education [3].