Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the (i) opportunities; and (ii) challenges for his Department in relation to the development of Artificial Intelligence.
Minister of Education: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is in use, to a greater or lesser extent, in almost every activity.
My Department as an organisation has been provided with NICS Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) | NICS Intranet (nigov.net)
The development of AI in the workplace, including schools, could be utilised to assist with tasks and allow Principals and Teachers to focus on the education of our young people.
AI has the potential to transform the delivery of the Northern Ireland Curriculum. It can support curriculum planning, create interactive learning environments, and provide real-time assessments and feedback, helping students understand their progress and areas for improvement. AI-powered language learning tools can assist in teaching new languages, reading, and writing skills, adapting to the learner’s pace and proficiency. However, it is important to note the risks associated with the use of AI to support the delivery of the Northern Ireland Curriculum, namely that content produced by AI can be inaccurate, inappropriate or biased.
The application of AI in the awarding of qualifications is being considered by policy makers, awarding bodies and regulators. The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), of which CCEA is a constituent member, provides guidance to all schools in Northern Ireland regarding monitoring the use of AI and protecting the integrity of examinations. This guidance advises schools on a range of AI-related issues including how to prevent the misuse of AI in assessments.
The EA is actively exploring AI and new technology. A review is currently being conducted on a draft AI standard that will provide clarity and guidance for responsible and effective AI adoption across the organisation. The potential of this emerging technology is recognised, and EA is committed to deploying it safely through a defined pilot scheme in collaboration with a specialised AI partner.
AI has the potential to present challenges in relation to child protection. From a safeguarding perspective, schools are provided with the most up-to-date resources in relation to online safety in Safeguarding and Child Protection in Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools – A Guide for Schools. DE also funds iNEQE Safeguarding Group to provide the Safer Schools Northern Ireland App which includes information on AI for pupils, parents/carers and school staff, registered to use the App. DE continues to work with partners on the cross-departmental Online Safety Strategy led by DoH.
We are also likely to face challenges regarding investment in AI and cybersecurity.
The Department of Education and its arm’s-length bodies will continue to review policies and practice in relation to the use of AI and it’s use in education, and update guidance as this area develops.
ENDS
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