New guidance advises teachers can use AI to save time on marking

New guidance advises that teachers can use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help speed up marking and produce correspondence with parents.

New teaching materials distributed to schools advises that teachers can use technology to help “automate routine tasks” in order to provide greater focus on time with pupils.

It comes as the Department for Education (DfE) has launched a package of measures to transform how schools use AI – including the first ever AI guidance for schools and colleges setting out how schools can safely and effectively use AI to transform the classroom experience for students.

A recent survey showed 43% of teachers rate their AI confidence at just 3/10, with over 60% asking for help applying AI to planning and support tasks. Nearly all teachers wanted safety guidance and additional training.

The “comprehensive” guidance aims to give teachers and leaders the confidence to “power-up learning” and according to the DfE “swap wasted hours spent on admin for time spent inspiring our children”.

Developed in partnership with education experts from the Chiltern Learning Trust and the Chartered College of Teaching, it sets out clear principles for AI use, with education standards and child safety at the fore.

It makes clear that AI should be used to “ensure learning remains teacher-led and that teachers should verify accuracy and protect personal data”.

Education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said: “We’re putting cutting-edge AI tools into the hands of our brilliant teachers to enhance how our children learn and develop – freeing teachers from paperwork so they can focus on what parents and pupils need most: inspiring teaching and personalised support.

“Our Plan for Change demands an excellent education for every child, and making all sure young people are benefitting from the latest technology is a vital step.By harnessing AI’s power to cut workloads, we’re revolutionising classrooms and driving high standards everywhere – breaking down barriers to opportunity so every child can achieve and thrive.”

Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, added: “These resources are a welcome source of support for education staff. AI has huge potential benefits for schools and children’s learning, but it is important that these are harnessed in the right way and any pitfalls avoided.

“Government investment in future testing and research is vital as staff need reliable sources of evaluation – supported with evidence – on the benefits, limitations and risks of AI tools and their potential uses.”