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The program’s first new training module starts today (30 May), aiming to ensure that teachers can build their AI skills safely and comprehensively.
Teachers in Australia and New Zealand will be able to access a new educational resource from today, aimed at providing them with the necessary skills to employ generative AI tools in the classroom.
The new program is the brainchild of Microsoft and Education Services Australia (ESA), a not-for-profit entity established by education ministers from around the country.
“Using the knowledge gained from these modules, teachers can be significantly more confident in using GenAI for their own benefit, as well as in tailoring learning experiences to improve accessibility and engagement for students,” Microsoft ANZ education director Adam Pollington said in a 30 May statement.
“We know from examples in Australia that teachers can save an average of 9.3 hours per week through GenAI use, and that additional time can be repurposed to enhance student outcomes. Teachers play a critical role in driving responsible student GenAI use, so it is imperative that they lead the way, and this training will provide the opportunity to do so.”
Speaking for ESA, CEO Andrew Smith said generative AI needs to be treated as both an opportunity and a risk in a school setting.
“These modules offer an accessible avenue for Australia’s teachers to build their confidence and knowledge in using it safely and ethically, which will support our schools and education systems in achieving better outcomes as the technology evolves,” Smith said.
The first module, AI Readiness: Preparing teachers for safe and effective use of GenAI, is available now on the ESA Digital Technologies Hub website, while the second module, AI Implementation: Strategies for guiding students in safe and effective use of GenAI, will be available in June.
“The first module serves as an excellent preparation resource, in anticipation of the next module,” Rebecca Weber, from the South Australian Department for Education, said.
“For those new to the concept of GenAI, it provides a strong starting point. The use of examples and the breakdown of prompts are well executed.”
Teachers can access these resources, established under the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and the Australian Government’s Framework for Generative AI in Schools, for no cost.
This program is part of a Microsoft initiative to train 1 million individuals from both New Zealand and Australia in the use of generative AI by 2026.
David Hollingworth has been writing about technology for over 20 years, and has worked for a range of print and online titles in his career. He is enjoying getting to grips with cyber security, especially when it lets him talk about Lego.
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