AI framework for schools released

The Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Schools has been released.

The Framework has been designed to assist school communities to use generative AI in a safe and effective way.

Key to the Framework is the privacy, security and safety of students, with the Framework making clear that generative AI tools should only be used in ways that:

“…respect and uphold privacy and data rights, comply with Australian law, and avoid the unnecessary collection, limit the retention, prevent further distribution, and prohibit the sale of student data.”

In addition to privacy, security and safety, the Framework prioritises teaching and learning outcomes, human and social wellbeing, transparency, fairness and accountability.

The Framework was considered and agreed to by all Education Ministers in October and was developed by the National AI Schools Taskforce.

The Taskforce includes members from the Australian Government, States and Territories, the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO), the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL), and Education Services Australia.

The National AI Schools Taskforce consulted widely with government and non-government school sectors, education unions, AI and education experts and others, including First Nations people who provided feedback on the draft Framework released in July.

The Framework will be reviewed at least every 12 months, or as needed.

As part of the implementation of the Framework, $1 million will be provided to Education Services Australia to establish product expectations for generative AI technology.

The Framework can be accessed here. 

The Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Schools complements the Albanese Government’s broader work into Safe and Responsible AI led by Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, Jason Clare:

“Generative AI presents opportunities for students and teachers, but there are also risks such as the privacy and safety of school children.

“This Framework will help guide all school communities so they can enjoy the potential benefits to teaching and learning that generative AI offers, while mitigating the risks.

“Importantly, the Framework highlights that schools should not use generative AI products that sell student data.

“We will continue to review the Framework to keep pace with developments in generative AI and changes in technology.

“If we get this right, generative AI can help personalise education and make learning more compelling and effective, and this Framework will help teachers and school communities maximise the potential of this new technology.”

Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car:

“The framework provides clear direction to educators, parents and the wider school community about our expectations of generative AI tools.

“As we continue to work through how to responsibly manage the use of AI in school, we must ensure any future policy makes the technology accessible to everyone, no matter their background.

“We cannot have a situation where the potential future use of AI entrenches inequities among NSW students.”

Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Education, Ben Carroll:

“Privacy and security for students and teachers is paramount, and we’re proud to be working together with State and Commonwealth governments to get the balance right in setting students up to take on future opportunities arising from Generative AI.”

Quotes attributable to Northern Territory Minister for Education, Eva Lawler:

“We are preparing for the future of education, and this Framework reflects collaboration from government, professional organisations, and school community groups to utilise Generative AI technology.

“Generative AI will not replace teachers, rather this technology will be used to enhance teaching and underscore learning benefits for students far and wide.”

Quotes attributable to South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills, Blair Boyer:

“AI will be a part of our work and lives in the future, which means we have a responsibility to educate young people about its appropriate use.

“If we don’t, we are doing them an incredible disservice.

“In South Australia, we have worked with Microsoft to develop a safe version for use in schools with extra security features built into safeguard student privacy and data.

“I’m pleased my state and territory colleagues have all agreed on a way forward to support students right across the country as they navigate how to interact safely in an increasingly more digital world.”

Quotes attributable to West Australian Minister for Education, Dr Tony Buti:

“We want to harness the positive impact AI can have on the way teachers teach and students learn.

“AI has the potential to revolutionise education, change marking and assessments, lesson planning, even the way students provide feedback, however we must ensure it is done safely and effectively.

“While it will never replace the human touch, empathy and creativity that teachers bring to the classroom, it is a whole new world that can take the educational experience in our schools to the next level.”

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Education, Roger Jaensch:

“The emergence of AI technology in recent times presents both opportunities and challenges to the education sector globally.

“As AI technology become more sophisticated, the impact on teaching and learning practices will only continue to grow, so it is critical that we have a framework in place to help us harness the benefits while minimising associated risks.”

[ENDS]