Developing Vocational Education and Training with Artificial Intelligence

The report Developing Vocational Education and Training with Artificial Intelligence examines how artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to transform the development of curricula, qualifications and occupational standards in vocational education and training (VET). Commonly lengthy and resource-intensive, the development processes face increasing pressure to respond to fast changing labour market needs driven by digitalisation, green transitions and structural shifts – as well as AI itself. The report analyses current and emerging applications and pilots of AI in VET development, from labour market analysis and competency mapping, to automated drafting and compliance checks. It identifies opportunities to enhance relevance, agility and efficiency in VET, while emphasising potential risks, governance needs and the continuing importance of a human-centred approach. The report provides policy considerations for effective and secure integration of AI into VET development, ensuring that VET curricula and qualifications remain relevant, trusted and future-ready. It draws on survey results across 25 countries and case studies from Croatia, England (United Kingdom), Estonia, Germany, Ireland, Korea, Lithuania, Mexico, Netherlands and Switzerland.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used to support the development and updating of vocational education and training (VET) curricula and qualifications. While AI use can improve efficiency, responsiveness and the use of evidence in VET development, it raises important questions about governance, quality, accountability and ownership. VET development is typically governed by regulated, multi stakeholder processes with strong implications for labour market outcomes and public trust. Without clear VET-specific guidance, AI risks being applied in fragmented ways that may weaken collective decision making, blur responsibility or reinforce divides between stakeholders. This policy brief highlights VET-specific guidance by setting out five principles for the effective and secure use of AI in VET development. The principles emphasise human centred use, diversity and inclusiveness, accountability, transparency, and data quality, security and protection, ensuring that AI supports collective expert judgement and collaborative decision making while strengthening quality, legitimacy and trust in VET systems.