ChatGPT, an AI-powered chatbot, will be officially introduced in Australian schools this year following the endorsement of a framework guiding AI use by education ministers. This development comes after the education sector grappled with how to respond to the chatbot since its release in late 2022. Now that it is here to stay, it is important to understand how AI is being integrated into schools.
The framework, released in December, lays out principles for the use of emergent technologies in education, including privacy and security standards, equity, and accessibility. It was developed in consultation with various stakeholders, including school sectors, education unions, experts, and First Nations Australians.
Under the framework, schools are required to familiarize students with how generative AI tools like ChatGPT work, including their limitations and biases. Teachers are seen as subject-matter experts in the classroom and should engage students accordingly. Additionally, student work and assessments should clearly outline whether and how generative AI tools were used, including appropriate attribution.
The framework also recognizes the potential of AI to support students with disabilities, those from diverse backgrounds, and those in rural and remote communities, as long as it is accessible and equitable.
Last year, all states and territories except South Australia implemented temporary restrictions on ChatGPT in public schools due to concerns about privacy and plagiarism. However, some private schools have already incorporated the technology into their teaching and services. As a result, an inquiry into the use of generative AI, led by Education Minister Jason Clare, was launched to assess the opportunities and risks it presents to students and teachers. Clare emphasized the need to ensure that generative AI products used in schools do not sell student data.
The Department of Education highlighted that while AI technology is rapidly advancing, Australia has been at the forefront of its response. Early research has shown that AI can enhance personalized education, provide better learning materials, and support at-risk students.
South Australia took a different approach by not imposing a ban on ChatGPT. The Minister for Education, Training, and Skills, Blair Boyer, believes that educating students about the appropriate use of AI is crucial, as it will be a part of their future. South Australia’s Department of Education has even developed its own generative AI chatbot app, called EdChat, which ensures student privacy and avoids inappropriate content.
Other states are also exploring the integration of AI in education. Queensland conducted a trial of an AI teaching and learning tool called Cerego, while Victoria lifted its restrictions on ChatGPT. Tasmania is preparing its own policy and materials to integrate AI into the curriculum, and Western Australia is considering AI trials to streamline various educational tasks.
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is taking a cautious approach, citing concerns about algorithmic bias and unauthorized use of student data. The ACT education directorate is focused on establishing a robust educational framework to guide responsible AI use by students.
New South Wales (NSW) is actively involved in discussions to prepare students for a future where generative AI is part of everyday life. However, UTS academic Leslie Loble emphasizes the need for clearer standards and expectations for AI in education, taking into account issues of equity and the digital divide.
In conclusion, the implementation of ChatGPT in Australian schools marks an important milestone in the integration of AI in education. While there are still concerns to address, the framework developed by the National AI Schools Taskforce provides guidelines to ensure responsible and effective use of AI. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial to provide teachers and schools with the necessary support and training to harness the benefits of AI while mitigating potential challenges.
