The Welsh Government has published guidance for the country’s schools on using generative AI.
It has become available along with an announcement that Estyn, the national education and training inspectorate, is to lead a review of how the technology is being used in schools across the country.
The guidance says it is important for practitioners to learn how to use generative AI to support learners.
It includes an explanation of the technology and sections on opportunities for schools, enabling learners to engage responsibly with the technology, supporting practitioners in its use and considerations for schools.
The latter covers issues such as accessibility and digital inclusion, bias and discrimination, content accuracy and reliability, privacy, ethics and intellectual property.
Estyn has indicated that the review will explore the potential benefits of the technology and the challenges in its use.
The first phase will include a survey of schools and pupil referral units asking for their views and experience, following by more in-depth engagement with teachers.
The findings are expected to be published during the summer.
Understanding good practice
Cabinet Secretary for Education Lynne Neagle, said: “By getting an understanding of the good practice already being used we can help schools to embrace the opportunities AI could bring responsibly, while continuing to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of staff and learners.”
Owen Evans, chief inspector at Estyn, said: “Generative AI has the potential to transform education if used responsibly and its use amongst educators and learners is accelerating at a rapid rate.
“Having a clearer understanding of the integration of AI in schools at a national level will enable government to better support and guide the education community in the use of this powerful technology.”
