AI in 1 in 5 schools - but staff not trained

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used in almost one in five schools, yet staff are being given no training, GMB has warned.

According to a survey of 1,250 school support staff, 16 per cent say pupils at the school are using AI, with 17 per cent saying the technology is being used by them or their colleagues.

At the same time, more than 84 per cent say they have not received training on Digital and Technology Standards.

In a letter to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson GMB highlights these survey results along with concerns of workers, including:

• 39 per cent have concerns about the impact of AI in education, including worries over cheating, plagiarism, lazy thinking, loss of human touch and too much screen time

• 63 per cent view AI in education as ‘a largely negative thing’

• 67 per cent are worried AI might be used as a means to reduce staffing levels within five years

Workers also fear children aren’t learning anything other than how to dodge anti AI software and ‘cheat’ the system and that AI will worsen social, cognitive and emotional damage already done by smartphones. [See notes for selected survey responses]

GMB calls on the Government to work with GMB on plans for AI technology in education so staff are properly trained and ready to use it in the best possible way.

Stacey Booth, GMB National Officer, said:

“Despite AI’s increasing use in schools, there is a distinct lack of training for staff.

“School workers should be involved from the ground up when introducing new technology – not only so they can use it in the most effective way possible, but they can point out potential pitfalls.

“AI can be a powerful force for good in schools, but huge dangers lurk and school workers, unions and Ministers must pull together in the same direction.”