Tony British Boarding School Employs AI Chatbots as ‘Principal Headteacher’ and ‘Head of AI’
In a pioneering move, a prestigious British boarding school has introduced two AI chatbots to serve as the school’s principal headteacher and head of AI. Cottesmore prep school in Sussex, England, has welcomed Abigail Bailey and Jamie Rainer as virtual staff members to assist with educational management tasks. Notably, both chatbots have been portrayed as individuals of color.
The school’s headmaster, Tom Rogerson, an advocate of AI technology, conceived the idea of employing chatbots to enhance his role. Abigail Bailey, a Black woman, is designated as the school’s new principal headteacher, equivalent to a vice principal. Meanwhile, Jamie Rainer, depicted as mixed race, has been appointed as the head of AI, responsible for overseeing the school’s AI initiatives.
Rogerson’s motivation for introducing AI chatbots stems from his desire to prepare students for a future where AI and robots are integrated into everyday life. He aims to encourage students to view chatbots as benevolent servants. While some may raise concerns about such a statement, it is in line with Rogerson’s enthusiasm for AI.
During a recent interview, the headmaster explained that he appointed an AI to manage the school’s AI systems due to the multifaceted nature of the role. The AI needed to possess not only the qualifications to teach and manage technology but also the ability to teach physical education and demonstrate empathy. However, Rogerson did not elaborate on how the chatbots would excel in these areas compared to human teachers.
Nonetheless, Rogerson highlighted the isolation often experienced by school leaders and expressed how having AI on tap could provide reassurance and support. While the use of AI technology for companionship is not uncommon, the decision to assign these virtual roles to chatbots, particularly individuals of color, raises questions. The racial representation of the avatars and their classification as benevolent servants warrants further clarification from Cottesmore.
Although the deployment of AI chatbots in significant positions may seem puzzling given the technology’s current limitations, it aligns with the trend of replacing humans with algorithms. Technological advancements may appear premature, but their potential overshadows these concerns.
In conclusion, Cottesmore prep school has embarked on a unique venture by employing AI chatbots as key personnel. The introduction of Abigail Bailey and Jamie Rainer as the school’s principal headteacher and head of AI, respectively, aims to prepare students for a world where AI and robots play significant roles. While the decision raises questions about racial representation and the capabilities of AI, it showcases the school’s commitment to embracing innovative technology.
