Our first podcast of this academic year sees us continuing from where we left off in May, talking again about the potential of generative AI in teaching, learning and assessment. So, to follow up last year’s in-depth look into the use of AI in the Further Education and Training (FET) sector over the next two podcasts we’re going to look specifically at how GEN AI tools are currently being used in Primary and Second Level. Starting with the former, Dr Michael Hallissy is joined by Mark Delahunty of St Mary’s Thomastown, Kilkenny & Séamus Barry, Principal at Ballybrown National School, Limerick, to talk about how tools like Chat GPT and Magic School AI can be used to enhance their teaching, save time, and improve student learning outcomes.
This podcast provides valuable insights into the practical use of AI in education, highlighting both the benefits and challenges, and offering advice for educators looking to integrate AI into their classrooms, some key points from the conversation include…
- Benefits of AI in the Classroom:
- Time-saving for teachers (e.g., lesson planning, resource creation)
- Personalised learning experiences for students
- Improved student engagement and motivation
- Facilitates differentiation and caters to diverse learning needs
- Tools and Applications:
- Magic School AI: A comprehensive platform for various AI tools
- ChatGPT: For generating text, summaries, and creative content
- AI tutors for personalised feedback and support
- Image generators for visual aids and creative projects
- Challenges and Considerations:
- Data privacy and security concerns
- Overreliance on AI and potential for decreased critical thinking skills
- Digital divide and equitable access to AI resources
- Recommendations:
- Start small and gradually integrate AI tools into your teaching practice.
- Collaborate with colleagues to share experiences and learn from each other.
- Be mindful of the ethical implications and potential biases of AI-generated content.
- Provide professional development opportunities for teachers to develop AI literacy.
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