Ms O’CONNOR question to MINISTER for EDUCATION Ms PALMER
Minister, I want to ask you, on behalf of students in the north-west, about the use of generative AI in classrooms. We’ve received some correspondence from a student of Hellyer College, which I’ll summarise for you, so I don’t run over. I’m part of a group of students in north-west Tasmania aiming to keep generative AI out of schools, following DECYP trialling AI bots inside of 14 Tasmanian classrooms. Our main concerns are the environmental and social impacts of AI usage, the effect AI has on the human brain, and what this means for students and educators moving forward. The group has so far launched a petition to keep generative AI out of Hellyer College. She feels fortunate to say the story’s been picked up by local and national media. This student is emailing to inform us of the work that they’ve been doing, as she is aware that not all of the state’s news is able to cross your desk. They are concerned that DECYP’s implementation of generative AI has happened quietly. She claims that students in the group feel scared for the future and mentally drained from the societal expectations of AI usage. Minister, what is your government’s response to these concerns of students at Hellyer College? Is there any plan to consult with students in our education system about how much they would like to see AI bots used in classrooms, and what is the ultimate goal of your government in terms of the use of generative AI in the public education system in Tasmania?
ANSWER
Artificial intelligence, which I’ll refer to as AI from this point on, is certainly becoming increasingly common in education, tertiary study, workplaces and, indeed, in everyday life. There is no escaping the fact that the workforce of the future will need to be AI proficient. As with other emerging technologies, schools have an important role in helping students develop the knowledge and skills needed to be able to use these tools safely, responsibly and ethically. The Department for Education, Children and Young People (DECYP) has policies, procedures and support resources for principals and teachers related to generative AI in schools, including an academic integrity guide. The government’s approach to AI aligns with the Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Schools, which guides responsible and ethical use. Over terms three and four of this year, the department is commencing a range of proof-of-concept pilots, exploring the use of AI tools for teachers and students in personalised learning, curriculum design, workforce support and efficiency. They are tightly controlled trials with AI tools being used to support and enhance teaching and learning, not replace human thinking or indeed decision making. AI apps and websites are currently blocked for all other students on DSIP devices and networks.
Now, you did talk specifically with regard to students at Hellyer College, and I’m certainly aware of the petition concerning the use of generative AI at Hellyer College and the concerns that have been raised about learning quality and academic integrity. I’m advised that the college’s leadership has offered to listen and to engage with student’s views. I have been advised that there have been a number of Hellyer students who have chosen to not be involved with that, but I certainly encourage them to do so.
