Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Learning Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT are already impacting our daily lives and are set to become even more integrated in the future. The education sector must work to update its processes, procedures and policies to ensure that Generative AI is used in a afe, ethical and productive way.
This article will discuss the opportunities and risks of using AI in schools and how schools can better implement this emerging technology.
Generative AI opportunities in schools
AI offers a world of opportunities for schools to help improve their processes. Through automated processes schools can improve operational efficiency reducing administrative workload. Generative AI can also help improve reporting streamlining information into digestible data that can be shared.
Generative AI can also be used in improving teaching and learning, by helping teachers brainstorm new ideas and creative interactive quizzes and fresh activities. AI can also be used to adapt learning materials to help make learning more accessible for all.
Generative AI risks
Like with any emerging technology, generative AI poses some risks and safeguarding concerns and must be used with care and through careful planning. LLMs are designed to respond to the users, often adjusting the information and advice they provide in order to appease the individual they are conversing with. This means that the information or advice given can be biased and inaccurate.
Additionally, there are data protection concerns when it comes to providing sensitive information into generative AI engines. Lastly there are ethical concerns related to the use of generative AI including plagiarism and the environmental impact of LLMs.
How to better utilise AI in schools
The Department for Education (DfE) has released a number of policy papers and information about the way schools can adopt generative AI. Additionally, Ofsted has released guidance to how they approach a school’s AI use during inspections. It is clear that due to the massive opportunity and risk that AI poses schools should work to ensure the implementation of this technology is done carefully. To support these schools should invest in training for staff to help them navigate this transition. Additionally, having a single member of staff who owns the AI digital transformation in the setting will help to ensure that the transition is done carefully in a considered way.
NEW training programme: AI Practitioner for Schools
LMP Education has launched a new training programme: AI Practitioner for Schools. This new level 4 funded training is aimed at staff already working in schools or multi-academy trusts such as teachers, heads of departments or administrators.
Unlike generic AI courses or one-off CPD sessions, the AI Practitioner for Schools Apprenticeship has been built specifically for the education sector.
This new apprenticeship focuses on the practical, ethical and effective use of AI and automation across schools and MATs. It is a 14-month programme made up of 9 modules delivered weekly via a virtual classroom and an on-programme assessment.
Learn more about the AI Practitioner for Schools programme.
About LMP Education
LMP Education is an award-winning apprenticeship training provider that offers a range of funded training solutions for schools. We support organisations in upskilling their staff through apprenticeship training programmes.
If you are interested in learning more about how LMP Education can support your school through funded training for staff, book a discovery call with a member of the team today!
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