AI: Schools in Wales 'excited but wary' as teacher workloads cut

AI: Schools in Wales 'excited but wary' as teacher workloads cut

Schools are cautiously optimistic about the potential of AI to reduce teacher workloads, according to a report from the education watchdog. The report emphasizes the need for clearer guidelines on the safe and ethical use of AI in educational settings. While some teachers are using AI for lesson planning and administrative tasks, there are concerns about its impact on students’ skills and the potential for plagiarism.

At Birchgrove Comprehensive School in Swansea, AI is integrated into ICT lessons to enhance students’ digital literacy. Ryan Cresswell, the school’s digital and innovation lead, believes in encouraging responsible AI use among students to positively impact their learning. The school aims to utilize AI to accelerate learning and foster curiosity while ensuring students understand how to use it ethically.

Secondary school students are using AI for various tasks such as summarizing notes and creating tailored quiz questions. Despite the potential benefits, there are significant variations in AI usage among students, with some expressing fear and uncertainty about its permissibility. Overall, schools are in the early stages of exploring AI’s benefits, with many teachers excited about its potential but wary of potential issues like accuracy, bias, and safeguarding risks.

AI adoption in schools has shown promise in reducing administrative workloads and tailoring resources for students with additional needs. Headteacher Andrew Owen acknowledges the value of AI in helping students process information and emphasizes the importance of educating students about its responsible use. The Welsh government has accepted recommendations for more training and national guidance on AI implementation in education to ensure the safety and well-being of both students and staff

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