The government’s open innovation team has proposed five changes regarding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in schools. Firstly, schools should be funded to conduct trials of potential AI applications to ensure their effectiveness in improving student outcomes. Secondly, a long-term strategy for the use of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, in schools is recommended to explore changes in education models, including the role of teachers and classroom-based learning. The strategy should be future-proofed and involve forums for knowledge sharing.
Thirdly, there is a call for funding to evaluate the impact of educational technology (ed tech) tools, addressing evidence gaps, especially for disadvantaged students. Incentives and resources are needed to encourage schools to participate, and metrics like student outcomes over engagement should be prioritized. Fourthly, research funding is suggested to help teachers detect AI-enabled academic malpractice, including tools for reliably identifying AI-generated work and implementing measures like watermarking for recognition.
Additionally, the curriculum should be updated to reflect students’ use of AI, and collaboration between employers, government, awarding bodies, and educators is encouraged. The potential for a “digital divide” in AI usage between state and independent schools should be addressed by the government to ensure equal access for all teachers and students.
Finally, transparency on the impact evidence of generative AI is emphasized. More research is needed to understand the intellectual property of generative AI, and support for traditional educational publishers may be necessary to maintain a sustainable publishing sector. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan stressed the importance of robust evidence in edtech and called for transparency from edtech firms. The article also mentions recent updates to school technology standards, including assigning a senior leader for digital technology, creating a two-year strategy, and ensuring accessibility features for disabled students.