Empowering Sustainable Futures: The Teacher-AI-Student Triadic Model in Vocational Education

Abstract

The Teacher–AI–Student Triadic Model is proposed as a conceptual framework for advancing sustainable and human-centred artificial intelligence (AI) integration in vocational education. Responding to the growing demand for work-ready and sustainability-oriented graduates, the model reconceptualises the roles of teachers, students, and AI systems within AI-enhanced learning environments. Developed through a conceptual research methodology, the model draws on an in-depth literature review and synthesises constructivist learning theory, social learning theory, and competency-based education. It emphasises dynamic interactions among teachers, AI, and students as central to fostering adaptive learning, ethical reasoning, and sustainable thinking. Within the triadic structure, teachers function as ethical mentors and learning architects, students as self-regulated and adaptive learners, and AI as an intelligent collaborator supporting personalised learning and formative assessment. The model illustrates potential applications in vocational contexts, including green technology simulations, virtual laboratories, AI-supported assessment, and sustainability-oriented entrepreneurship training. By embedding the Sustainable Development Goals as a core pedagogical capability rather than a peripheral objective, the model offers a vocationally specific, ethically grounded framework aligned with the transition toward Society 5.0. This study contributes a structured foundation for future empirical research, policy development, and responsible AI implementation in vocational education.