Learning First Report Highlights Concerns
Education consultancy Learning First has released a new report urging immediate action on the use of AI by students in New South Wales schools. This report highlights significant concerns about AI’s impact on learning and the integrity of assessments.
Titled ‘AI Use in Schools: Taking Action Now,’ the report draws on a survey of over 4,000 teachers and school leaders from NSW. Around 50% of secondary teachers reported that students use AI for schoolwork, while many educators are uncertain about preventing AI-related plagiarism.
Nearly 80% of educators from both primary and secondary levels whose students use AI express concern over its future impact on education. Three-quarters of secondary teachers observe student AI use specifically for assessments, despite more than 80% noting restrictions on such use.
Dr. Ben Jensen, CEO of Learning First, emphasised the urgency, stating, “AI is in schools now, so the time for action is now. Schools need to maintain effective learning and the integrity of assessment, which means taking AI out of student work.”
Educators’ Concerns and Recommendations
Three-quarters of teachers and school leaders have used AI in their professional duties, often for developing curriculum resources. This dual use creates a complex dynamic in educational settings, prompting discussions on effectively managing AI.
The report calls for coordinated leadership at every level of the education system to consider solutions addressing both risks and potential benefits of AI. It suggests exploring options such as policy development, training programs, and technological solutions, with more detailed recommendations in the full report.
About half of New South Wales secondary teachers are worried about the inability to prevent AI-related student plagiarism or cheating. The report also notes that three-quarters of teachers and school leaders have used AI for work, with about the same number using AI to develop curriculum resources.
Learning First operates as an education research and consulting group based in Melbourne, Australia. They work internationally, providing insights and solutions for educational challenges. For further information, contact Dr. Ben Jensen at 0421 282 522 or Emily Pearson at 0429 358 742.
