Free new training for students and teachers on how to use artificial intelligence safely and equitably during learning is designed to address the digital divide.
Many sixth grade and university teachers lack confidence in their knowledge of AI, which can limit the educational support available to students on how to use AI appropriately and effectively to enhance learning.
These disparities in support are likely to be greatest in regions where resources are scarce.
Two new online courses offered by the University of Exeter on Learn.Exeter have been developed as part of an EPSRC-funded project to improve knowledge about artificial intelligence to support wider participation.
One is aimed at educators such as teachers and other school staff who support Year 6 and university students, and the other is designed for students taking further education courses such as A-levels and BTECs.
Both courses have been developed collaboratively by University of Exeter staff with input from undergraduate students. The aim is to help educators and young people better understand how AI tools work, the opportunities and risks associated with their use in education, and how they can use AI responsibly in learning.
Conversations with teachers and advisors highlight continued confusion about how to appropriately use AI in post-16 classrooms. This uncertainty can make it difficult for staff to support students with confidence, so this course has been developed in accordance with exam board guidance to clarify expectations and provide practical guidance.
Nicola Sinclair, Associate Director for Access, Participation and Outreach at the University of Exeter, who is leading the project, said: “It’s clear that a digital divide exists. Young people from disadvantaged backgrounds are less likely to have clear advice and support on the use of artificial intelligence. We want to improve knowledge and understanding among students and their teachers.”
Dan Fenton, who led the introduction and development of the outreach resource with colleague Emma Parr, said: “AI can be a tool to support learning. Teachers who are confident about what AI is and its applications will help them use AI appropriately, effectively, fairly and safely. They can tackle misinformation and prevent AI from being misused.”
“These courses demonstrate how large-scale language models work. We know there is an overwhelming need for this support among teachers. We also know that those working and learning in poorer areas are less likely to receive support.”
Exam boards allow the use of AI in coursework and the use of AI to enhance learning.
Courses focused on using AI language models such as ChatGPT are available online for free for two years. The teacher course is divided into two sessions for all subjects, with each session taking 45 minutes to complete. Student courses are designed to be completed in one 45-minute session.
Find your course at https://learn.exeter.ac.uk/login/index.php
