The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) defines
artificial intelligence (AI) (PDF, 208KB) as a collection of interrelated technologies used to solve problems autonomously and perform tasks to achieve defined objectives, in some cases without explicit guidance from a human being. The power of AI comes from a convergence of a range of different technologies.
The Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Schools explains that generative artificial intelligence (GAI) uses data it was trained on to generate new content such as text, images, audio and video that resembles what humans can produce. It is effective at recognising patterns (in video, audio, text or images) and emulating them when tasked with producing something.
Embedding future-focused learning practices
The department’s
Equity and Excellence strategy focuses on preparing the students of today for a more diverse and global world. It aims to unlock students’ potential to become healthy, productive, life-long learners and job-ready citizens. The system initiative of
digital innovation in teaching and learning commits to embedding future-focused learning practices that connect students and teachers across Queensland.
The ethical and responsible use of current and emerging GAI tools can contribute towards our common goal of ensuring that all Queensland students realise their potential.
We aim to leverage innovations to connect young people to learning in ways that inspire them and prepare them to fully participate in a diverse and digitally enabled society.
Australian Framework for GAI in Schools
Education Ministers from all Australian states and territories have agreed that responding to the risks and harnessing opportunities from GAI technologies is a national education priority.
The
Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Schools (the Framework) aims to provide guidance on the ethical and safe use of GAI in schools in ways that benefit students, schools and society. The Framework is designed to help Australian school communities support 3 overarching goals of:
- education outcomes
- ethical practices
- equity and inclusion.
The Framework’s 6 principles and 25 guiding statements are designed to help jurisdictions and sectors align existing approaches, while also supporting the development of future work.
GAI tools
GAI tools can contribute towards delivering future-focused learning practices that connect students and teachers across Queensland.
Teachers remain instrumental in leading learning, including helping students developing the critical thinking skills and creativity so students can use AI ethically and safely for learning.
GAI tools provide opportunities for teachers including:
- creating and customising content
- assisting with administrative tasks / improving operational efficiencies
- designing formative assessment activities
- analysing data efficiently
- checking for understanding
- creating resources to support differentiation
- providing feedback.
GAI tools provide opportunities for student learning including:
- personalising learning based on individual student needs
- improving accessibility
- engaging learners
- idea generation
- checking for understanding
- providing feedback.
Support your child
When considering your child’s use of GAI tools, you should keep the following in mind.
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Privacy: Always be mindful of the data your child shares and advise them to avoid disclosing personal or sensitive information, as this data could be stored and used in ways they may not intend.
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Security: Ensure that your child is using secure and reputable platforms, and keep all software up-to-date to protect against vulnerabilities.
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Age and access: Before accessing any GAI tools, you need to consider each tool’s terms and conditions.
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Reliability: Ensure your child is aware that while GAI tools can generate convincing responses, they are not always accurate. Their results should be carefully reviewed. Guide your child to always double-check the outputs and critically assess the generated content.
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Your child’s learning needs: Although GAI tools can be powerful aids in learning, they should be balanced with other forms of learning such as reading, hands-on experiences and social interactions.
The following resources can support you in making informed decisions about the use of GAI.
The department is currently working, in partnership with a range of schools, to provide further guidance on the operationalisation of the Australian Framework for GAI in Schools.