Learning Delphi study: Artificial intelligence is changing digital education

The 20th Trend study MMB Learning Delphi 2025/2026 of the mmb Institute shows significant changes in digital vocational education and training. A total of 77 experts from the education scene participated in the online survey between December 2025 and February 2026.

Industry climate and market shifts

Overall, the economic situation of the digital education industry is rated somewhat more positively than in the previous year. Traditional e-learning providers remain stable, but have been losing importance for several years. International education platforms and ed tech startups, on the other hand, continue to be well-regarded. The study points out that general AI systems are increasingly taking on tasks previously performed by traditional e-learning providers.

Learning technologies: Chatbots at the top

Chatbots and AI-based learning assistants are clearly at the forefront of learning technologies. Almost all respondents see it as central for the next three years. At the same time, video tutorials and microlearning offerings are losing approval. Established concepts such as blended learning and adaptive learning remain stable. AI-based systems for audit supervision are also gaining in importance.

In terms of economic potential, chatbots and learning assistants are in first place for the first time, followed by adaptive learning. Blended learning is gaining in importance again, while video tutorials as well as augmented, virtual and mixed reality applications are rated significantly worse.

Key learning topics

According to the respondents, artificial intelligence remains the most important learning topic for digital vocational education and training. This is followed by future skills as well as IT applications and IT business processes. Issues such as sustainability, compliance and occupational health and safety are losing importance in the assessment.

Examination formats in flux

The study also shows changes in exam formats. Classic written formats such as papers or exams are considered less reliable in the context of generative AI. Synchronous and practice-oriented formats are highlighted more strongly, such as practical demonstrations, oral examinations or technical discussions. These formats allow a more direct assessment of competences, but are associated with a higher organisational effort.

Regulation and AI use

When it comes to the use of AI in vocational education and training, respondents see a need for regulation, especially with regard to copyright and the labelling of AI-generated content. With regard to data protection, the assessments differ: Some see a need for further regulation, while another already sees a need for over-regulation.

Opportunities and risks

AI is seen as an integral part of future education development. Many respondents expect relief for teachers. At the same time, potential skills losses due to AI use as well as additional effort for quality testing AI-generated content are mentioned.