Artificial intelligence has become one of the most talked-about topics of our time, and for good reason. It is no longer something that happens “somewhere far away” in big tech companies or research labs. AI has entered our everyday lives, and increasingly, it is shaping university life as well. It is present in our classrooms, laboratories, research projects, and even at the strategic decision-making table.
When I reflect on how Tallinn University of Technology has changed in recent years, I see a university that does not fear new technologies, but instead knows how to interpret, explore, and apply them. Our strengths have always been engineering thinking, systematic approaches, and a willingness to experiment. These qualities make TalTech an ideal environment where AI can become not only an object of study, but a natural part of teaching, learning, and research.
TalTech as a Shaper of Estonia’s Future
Estonia is small, but if we use the tools the world offers us wisely, our impact can be significant. Artificial intelligence is one of the most powerful tools in this regard. TalTech has a unique role to play: we teach and research how AI can support sustainable development, green technologies, energy efficiency, cybersecurity, and the reliability of a digital society.
But we do not focus solely on the technology itself, we also consider its societal implications. How to ensure that AI solutions are fair, transparent, and human-centered? How to mitigate risks and foster responsible use? How to make sure that new technologies support people rather than replace them. Responsible AI development and deployment is one of our core principles and a value we are committed to sharing with the whole society.
AI as a New Way of Thinking
Artificial intelligence is not just a matter of algorithms or lines of code. It is a new way of thinking, learning, and creating. It is the ability to ask better questions and discover smarter answers.
At Tallinn University of Technology, we see AI as a partner, not a replacement. It supports lecturers in offering more personalized teaching, helps students discover new research avenues, and enables researchers to analyze vast amounts of data faster and more accurately than ever before.
AI also has its place in university management. It allows us to better understand how we operate, where our strengths lie, and where additional focus is needed. Yet, at the end of the day, every decision is still made by people. AI can offer insights, but values always come from us.
The Human Side of Technology
I personally believe that any new technology is truly valuable only when it serves people. Over the years, I have seen how digitalization and automation have transformed the way the university works.
At times, we may fear that machines will take our place. In reality, however, AI gives us the opportunity to focus on what is profoundly human: creativity, collaboration, and the development of empathy.
This is why I want to encourage every member of the university community – students, lecturers, researchers, and staff – not to fear AI but to explore it. Experiment, learn, and share your experiences.
An Invitation to the Journey
TalTech has always been a pioneer of innovation. Our strength lies in collaboration: with industry, between researchers, and across faculties and disciplines. Our journey into the age of artificial intelligence must be just as collaborative.
This blog is part of that journey. Here, we share thoughts, experiences, and visions about how AI can help us learn, teach, and conduct research more effectively. I invite all of you to join the conversation — whether you already work with AI or are just taking your first curious step.
Artificial intelligence does not determine what our future will look like. We determine how we choose to use it. Let us do so wisely, responsibly and together.