An Erasmus+ project coordinated by the Bulgarian Industrial Association demonstrates how artificial intelligence (AI) can help in-company mentors save time, set clearer tasks and provide better feedback, while also supporting learners more effectively throughout the work-based learning process.
Against the backdrop of skills shortages and rapid technological change, work-based learning provides a direct pathway for preparing future employees in a real working environment. Its quality, however, depends to a large extent on experienced employees who guide learners while also carrying out their regular professional duties. The Erasmus+ project Artificial Intelligence in Apprenticeship Mentoring (AI in Mentoring) – “Artificial Intelligence for Mentors in Dual Education” explores how AI can facilitate this role without losing the human dimension of learning.
Practical Support for Mentors through Artificial Intelligence
The project is based on the following idea: AI should support mentors, not replace them. In-company mentors can use widely available AI tools to break down complex work tasks into clear steps, adapt explanations to the learner’s level, prepare questions to check understanding, develop practical assignments, organise information on progress, or structure constructive feedback.
This can reduce the time spent on routine preparation and allow mentors to focus on what technology cannot provide – professional judgement, trust, encouragement and direct interaction with the learner. This is particularly important for small and medium-sized enterprises, where limited human resources and time constraints can make participation in dual education and other forms of work-based learning more challenging.
As part of the project, a practical guide for trainers and in-company mentors has been published. It follows the actual mentoring process and provides examples, exercises and approaches for using AI that do not require advanced technical skills. The guide also addresses data protection, the safe use of AI, and the need for AI-generated content to be checked and adapted before being used in work with learners.
Skills Matter More Than Tools
The project also highlights a broader challenge associated with the introduction of artificial intelligence: access to technology alone does not automatically lead to meaningful change. Employees need confidence, a clear understanding of objectives and the skills required to assess when AI can genuinely add value. In work-based learning, this means starting from a specific need in the mentoring process rather than from the technological tool itself.
Training and pilot activities in Bulgaria, Belgium and Spain demonstrate a shift from general interest in artificial intelligence towards its practical use in mentors’ everyday tasks. Participants report that they have gained greater knowledge and confidence in using AI for planning, providing feedback, monitoring progress and making decisions related to the ethical use of technology. Trainers also note that participants increasingly perceive AI as a practical assistant that can reduce routine work while keeping the relationship between the mentor and the learner at the centre of the process.
For employers considering the possibility of hosting students from vocational schools, artificial intelligence will not eliminate the need for a committed and well-prepared in-company mentor. It can, however, make some of the mentor’s tasks easier to perform.
Faster preparation, clearer task formulation and more structured feedback can help companies organise work-based learning more effectively while providing better support to learners.
The project Artificial Intelligence in Apprenticeship Mentoring – AI in Mentoring (“Artificial Intelligence for Mentors in Dual Education”) (No. 2024-1-BG01-KA220-VET-000247196) is funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ programme.
The partnership is coordinated by the Bulgarian Industrial Association and includes the Foundation for Modern Education (Bulgaria), TRIBEKA Training Lab (Spain), New Mindset Coaching and Training (Belgium) and CuratedAI (Belgium).
Official AI in Mentoring project website
The Mentors’ Guide is available here: AI Guide for Mentors