From 10 to 13 February 2026, Anna Ochmann, President of the ARTeria Foundation, participated in the international study visits “Best Practices in Digital Pedagogy and AI in Finland and Estonia”, organised in Estonia and Finland as part of the Erasmus+ Programme’s horizontal digital priority. The event was coordinated by the Estonian Education and Youth Board (HARNO) and brought together representatives from twelve countries working in school education, vocational education and training (VET), and Erasmus+ projects.
The programme focused on exchanging knowledge and experience on the use of artificial intelligence and digital pedagogy in education. Participants explored examples of good practice from Erasmus+ projects, discussed strategies for strengthening the competences of teachers and educational leaders, and examined innovative methods and tools supporting learning in the age of AI.
Particular attention was given to the education systems of Finland and Estonia, two European leaders in educational quality and digital transformation. The seminar presented the Finnish model of education, based on equity, teacher autonomy, and high levels of public trust, alongside Estonia’s experience in integrating digital technologies into schools, introducing artificial intelligence into education, and developing digital competences from the earliest stages of learning.
An important part of the programme consisted of study visits to two Estonian vocational schools: Tallinn Polytechnic School and Tallinn School of Service. Participants explored practical approaches to integrating digital technologies and artificial intelligence into vocational education, strategies for developing teachers’ digital competences, and models of cooperation between schools and employers. Particular interest was devoted to the role of the educational technologist, a specialist responsible for supporting teachers in the effective use of digital tools and emerging technologies.
The event highlighted that successful digital transformation in education depends not only on technological innovation but also on developing critical thinking, creativity, responsibility, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence. Discussions also referred to the AI Literacy (AILit) Framework, which emphasises that learners should be able not only to use AI tools but also to understand, manage, and critically evaluate them.
The knowledge and experience gained during the study visits have contributed to the further development of the ARTeria Foundation’s projects related to artificial intelligence and digital competences, including AI4CREATIVITY and YOUR AI. They also provided valuable inspiration for future initiatives supporting innovation across the cultural, creative, and education sectors.
