New AI framework for schools to be rolled out from early 2024

Queensland teachers will today be given a framework for how artificial intelligence can be managed in schools, following months of fear and uncertainty.

Queensland teachers will today be given an important framework on how artificial intelligence can be managed in schools from next year following months of fear and uncertainty.

Education ministers from across the country met in Hobart on Thursday to urgently discuss and agree to the AI Framework in Schools.

It is expected to tackle a range of issues, including the impact generative AI is likely to have on teaching and learning, its potential for misuse in assessments, and even how data will be collected, used and shared when students use an approved AI tool.

The meeting concluded late on Thursday, following discussions on topics ranging from child safety measures in early education and child care centres and the Universities Accord.

Education Minister Grace Grace. Picture: Steve Pohlner

But it is understood that the AI Framework in Schools was agreed to by the Ministers, including Queensland Education Minister Grace Grace.

The framework will roll out in schools from the beginning of next year, to be unveiled by ministers on Friday.

A draft version of the framework had been out for public consultation, though it is understood changes have been made to that document.

The draft did not recommend banning the use of generative AI in schools, but rather appropriately using it as a tool.

It called for “schools (to) engage students in learning about generative AI tools and how they work”.

The draft acknowledged that while generative AI could be used to support student learning, work was still needed on identifying and responding to any use for cheating on assignments.

“Assessments may need to be modified to avoid or use generative AI tools, so that they continue to ensure outputs will be a fair and unbiased evaluation of students’ performance, skills, and knowledge,” it stated.

Federal Education Minister Jason Clare compared it to the introduction of the calculator or the internet to education, saying it was a new technology that “we need to learn how to grapple with”.

Education Minister Jason Clare. Picture: NCA NewsWIRE / Emma Brasier

The Ministers will continue meeting today, where there will be further discussions on school funding agreements.

They were also provided an updated about the Children Education and Care Quality Authority’s review into child care safety arrangements, looking at areas including mandatory reporting and teacher and education registration.

The report was commissioned after revelations a Gold Coast man had been charged with 1600 offences for allegations he raped and abused 91 girls at various child care centres in Queensland, NSW and overseas over 15 years.

The Australian Federal Police also briefed the ministers on their work on child protection.