As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in education systems across Europe, the ability to critically evaluate AI-generated content has become one of the most essential competencies for teachers and students alike. In Episode 6 of the AI Navigators e-Learning Video Series, titled “Critical Thinking about AI”, Bojan Kordalov, EU expert in Strategic Communication, EU Visibility and AI Literacy and Director of Policy and Communication at the European Centre of Excellence (ECE Brussels), addresses the growing need for verification skills and digital resilience in the AI era.
The episode forms part of the AI Navigators series developed under the Erasmus+ project managed by New Mindset Coaching & Training from Belgium. The series is designed to support teachers in navigating artificial intelligence responsibly and confidently within classroom environments.
In his contribution, Kordalov emphasises that critical thinking begins with questioning information rather than accepting it at face value. In the age of AI, no content should be taken for granted. AI systems are capable of producing convincing text, images and even videos that appear credible but may contain inaccuracies, outdated data or entirely fabricated elements. These so-called “AI hallucinations” occur because AI tools process patterns rather than truth. As a result, they may confidently present incorrect statistics, misattribute quotations or refer to non-existent research.
This reality creates a new responsibility for educational institutions. Developing strong verification skills must now be considered an integral part of digital literacy. Teachers and students need to learn how to systematically question AI-generated responses, break them down into verifiable claims and cross-check information against reliable sources. Recognising bias, assessing credibility and tracing claims back to original publications are no longer optional skills, but essential safeguards for maintaining academic integrity.
“Resilience against misinformation and deepfakes starts within the educational system. Encouraging young people to ask questions, verify information and engage in constructive doubt builds long-term democratic resilience. If generations are not only guided but actively encouraged to question and analyse, they will be better prepared for a rapidly evolving technological landscape and more resistant to disinformation and manipulation.”, underlines Kordalov.
