The education landscape is rapidly evolving with the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) applications such as chatbot software ChatGPT. Recently, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) held an online meeting of education ministers from around the globe to investigate the risks and benefits of using AI tools in classrooms and to announce a new roadmap for a secure digital future for all.
This meeting revealed that while less than 10 per cent of schools and universities adhere to formal guidelines regarding the use of AI tools, more than 40 ministers discussed policy approaches and plans for integrating AI into education. The agency’s new roadmap on education and generative AI was also unveiled, which can create data and content based on existing algorithms but can also make alarming factual errors similar to humans.
Educators need to be aware of the challenges and risks posed by AI applications, but also the opportunities they bring. Generative AI opens up new horizons and challenges for education, as we need to take action to ensure that new AI technologies are integrated into education on our terms. It is our duty to prioritize safety, inclusion, diversity, transparency and quality.
At the same time, governments around the world are developing or refining national strategies on artificial intelligence, data protection, and other regulatory frameworks, as well as formulating policy responses to a swiftly evolving education landscape.
Teachers are a crucial part of this new era, as they need guidance and training to face the challenges posed by AI tools. It is essential to ensure that students are not exposed to false or biased information, as well as to mitigate the inherent defect of AI of making big mistakes. We must also figure out how to effectively integrate these tools into curricula, teaching methods, and examinations, and adjust education systems to the rapid disruptions caused by generative AI.
UNESCO is developing policy guidelines for the use of generative AI in education and research, as well as AI competency frameworks for students and instructors in the classroom. Digital Learning Week, which will be conducted at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris from September 4 to 7, will introduce these new tools.
With the introduction of AI in the classroom, teachers must be well-informed of the issues and opportunities. It is important to ensure that AI is used to improve learning and teaching experiences, rather than replace traditional teaching methods. By embracing AI and developing frameworks to ensure its safe integration into the curriculum, educators can take advantage of the incredible potential of AI in the classroom.
