Students in eight South Australian public high schools will trial an artificial intelligence app designed to help them use the technology to support their studies.
The students will use the chatbot for eight weeks alongside more broader guidance for schools and parents around the use of AI in education.
That includes outlining ways AI can provide educational opportunities through chatbots, image and video generation and intelligent tutoring systems.
The advice also provides guidance about managing risks with the app including features to protect children from inappropriate information.
SA is the only state not to ban AI in schools and Education Minister Blair Boyer said the government had decided to embrace the technology rather than prevent or ignore it.
“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 and effective use,” Mr Boyer said.
“If we don’t, then we are doing them an incredible disservice.”
Chief executive Martin Westwell said the education department wanted to encourage the use of AI, with safeguards, as a tool for learning to ensure young people had exposure to emerging technologies.
“However, we expect the use of AI to continue to develop and as such we will continue to review our policies, practices and best advice to teachers and parents in this space,” he said.
The schools participating in the trial are Ceduna Area School, Streaky Bay Area School, Adelaide Botanic High School, Adelaide High School, Mitcham Girls High School, Unley High School, Thebarton Senior College and Glenunga International High School.
Tim Dornin
(Australian Associated Press)
