PAIC Virtual Living Labs Bring Hands-On AI Learning to VET Classrooms

As part of its commitment to innovative and practice-oriented education, the PAIC project (Promoting Artificial Intelligence Competences in VET) successfully implemented Virtual Living Labs (VLLs) across all partner countries. These activities created hands-on learning environments where vocational education and training (VET) learners explored Artificial Intelligence through real-life vocational challenges.

The Virtual Living Labs followed a shared “learning by doing” approach, while remaining adaptable to local training contexts. During the sessions, students worked in teams to design, develop and test chatbot prototypes tailored to their future professions. This practical methodology enabled learners to move beyond theoretical concepts and directly experience how AI tools can be applied in vocational settings.

To support this process, students used a combination of intuitive digital tools. FigJam was used to map conversation flows and structure chatbot logic, ChatGPT supported the generation and refinement of chatbot content and code, and online editors such as OneCompiler allowed teams to test and debug their prototypes in real time. This integrated toolset enabled learners to transform initial ideas into fully functioning chatbot solutions within a single workshop.

The vocational challenges addressed during the Virtual Living Labs reflected a wide range of professional fields, including customer service, cosmetology, advertising, multimedia, hospitality and technical maintenance. By the end of the activities, each team presented a working prototype responding to a concrete vocational need, such as a virtual skin diagnostics assistant, a photography consultation chatbot or a product returns support bot.

Beyond technical skills, the Virtual Living Labs strengthened key transversal competences, including problem-solving, creativity, teamwork and critical thinking. The activities also provided educators with a replicable and flexible model for integrating Artificial Intelligence into VET lessons in an accessible and engaging way.

The successful implementation of the Virtual Living Labs demonstrated that AI education can be relevant and meaningful across diverse vocational fields. These activities represent a significant contribution to the PAIC project’s goal of making Artificial Intelligence education practical, inclusive and closely connected to real labour market needs.