The Estonian Education and Youth Board (Harno) met with researchers from Tallinn University to explore the use of artificial intelligence in the evaluation of Estonian language e-exams and standardized tests. A final decision on the adoption of AI will be made after conducting tests and pilot programs, according to Nele Toime, the head of the language sector at Harno. As part of ongoing educational reforms, significant changes are expected in primary school examinations, including the planned implementation of Estonian language e-exams by 2027.

During the recent meeting, researchers from Tallinn University presented their findings and outlined the possibilities that their developed solutions could offer for future assessment in the Estonian language. They discussed both technical solutions and potential use scenarios, including tasks where AI-based machine assessment could enhance the evaluation process. This exploration comes as part of broader educational reforms aimed at modernizing assessment practices in Estonia.

The integration of AI into exam assessment could provide a more efficient and standardized approach, potentially improving fairness and accuracy. However, details regarding the specific scenarios and technical implementations remain under investigation. The upcoming tests and pilot studies will be crucial in determining the feasibility and effectiveness of AI utilization in the educational system, reflecting a growing trend towards embracing technology in education.