Artificial intelligence, the labor market, and education for sustainable development: the points of intersection

Abstract This scientific paper is devoted to clarifying the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI), the modern labor market, and Education for sustainable development. Within this study, the authors concentrate their efforts on the following directions: (1) exploring the existing educational approaches and techniques, the knowledge of which helps minimize the possible negative consequences associated with the implementation of AI into the labor market; (2) analyzing Ukrainian and Slovak students’ points of views, that were obtained by surveying, on AI technologies and their potential effects on the labor market; (3) providing substantiation regarding the need of using the pedagogical strategies, particularly, (a-b) the implementation of AI-related technologies in the professional cycle disciplines, (c) assigning tasks that require AI technologies to exploit, (d) exploiting AI technologies as the source of improving the information infrastructure in HEIs. While formulating these pedagogical strategies, the authors comprised possible consequences (a negative effect of AI on the labor market, risks of applying AI in all spheres of human activity, a negative attitude of students toward AI) of AI application and the planned results. The authors considered the five dimensions of sustainability (technical, social, environmental, user, and economic) and presented them in the format of the Sustainability Awareness Diagram (SAD). The visualization of the effects that may result from the use of pedagogical strategies for Education for Sustainable Features is suggested. Each planned result is put in the SAD, assuming their influence (immediate, enabling, structural) on Sustainable Features. In overall, the proposed strategies aim to reduce the potential negative impacts of AI on the functioning of the labor market and instill a positive attitude toward AI technologies in university youth. The findings comprise the multifaceted and dynamic relationships between AI, the modern labor market, and Education for sustainable development. Results also reveal that AI technologies significantly impact the labor market by influencing job roles and skill requirements. Correspondingly, Education for sustainable development is vital in preparing young people to be aware of the evolving demands of the labor market impacted by AI, promoting skills that align with both technological improvements and sustainable practices.