To respond to the rapid advancement of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in schools, we recently held an ASC Masterclass to:
- improve learning outcomes,
- reduce educator workload, and
- increase learner engagement.
Steven Payne, Learning and Teaching Consultant from Standout Education, conducted the Masterclass and presented to our Principals, Heads of Teaching and Learning, Heads of Inclusive Education, and Digital Learning Leaders and Teachers.
In the session, Steven addressed the implications and opportunities available to ASC schools through Generative AI and explored new features across the Microsoft 365 Suite and AI for Accessibility and Inclusive Education.
In addition to considering the ethical use of AI tools, attendees were provided with hands-on experience to understand the capabilities and limitations of ChatGPT, Copilot, and similar tools including the creation of images and design documents. They also explored new accessibility features across the Microsoft 365 Suite.
A particular highlight of Steven’s presentation was his exploration of the Learning Accelerator suite to enhance students’ communication and collaboration, as well as to support reading, writing, maths, and digital literacy.
This Masterclass was presented in the context of the Australian Framework for Generative AI in Schools (the Framework), which seeks to guide the responsible and ethical use of generative AI tools in ways that benefit students, schools, and society. The Framework was developed by the National AI in Schools Taskforce (December, 2023), with representatives from the Commonwealth, all jurisdictions, school sectors, and all national education agencies.
Several ASC schools have also introduced a Generative AI Assessment Scale, as outlined by Leon Furze, due to the growing need for a clear and approachable means of addressing Generative AI in education, in K-12 and across learning areas.
Due to the success of this Masterclass, and to ensure ASC staff remain at the forefront of Generative AI technologies, Steven Payne will present an additional ASC Generative AI online workshop for ASC schools next term. I will email information about this workshop and the registration details out to schools shortly.
Please contact me if you have any questions regarding Generative AI for teaching and learning in ASC schools.
Best wishes for the remainder of Term 1.
Kathryn Paul
Director of Teaching and Learning
