News

Bourne Education Trust (BET) has taken a significant step towards harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the education sector, as part of a cross-sector initiative. Aptly named 'AI in Education' - the initiative has garnered substantial attention since its announcement at the AI in Education Conference held at Epsom College on May 18, 2023, making front page news.

In collaboration with Epsom College, BET will bring together senior and experienced figures from both the state and independent education sectors with the primary motivation (behind AI in Education) to provide real-time, specific, and informed advice to the education sector. It aims to complement guidance from the government and the tech industry, ensuring schools can maximise the benefits of AI in education.

Our Mission: Maximizing the Benefits of AI in Education

The mission of AI in Education is clear: To ensure that AI will maximise the interests of all involved in education, pupils, teachers, support staff, parents, governors and the wider community.

We want to do so by ensuring that AI enhances human intelligence and experience, and does so in a way that above all is to the benefit of the most vulnerable – including those with the least means, additional learning needs and those from diverse backgrounds.

AI in Education acknowledges the real risks associated with AI adoption in education, which include:

1. Infantilisation of students (and staff): The risk of AI undermining the autonomy and maturity of pupils and educators.

2. Moral risks, including deep fakes: The potential for AI to be misused, leading to ethical concerns.

3. Perceptions about cheating and dishonesty: The challenges posed by AI in maintaining academic integrity.

4. Lack of responsibility: The question of who holds accountability in an AI-augmented educational environment.

5. Impact on jobs: The potential transformation of roles within the education sector due to automation.

While these risks are significant, AI in Education firmly believes that the numerous gains of AI adoption can be realised by addressing and mitigating these challenges. The potential benefits include:

• Personalised tuition: AI can tailor educational content to individual pupil needs.
• Personalised formative assessment: Real-time feedback and assessments adapted to each pupil.
• AI-facilitated VR for enhanced learning: Immersive educational experiences across various subjects.
• Flexibility in learning: Giving enhanced opportunities for pupils to learn at their own pace and in their preferred style.
• Efficiency in teaching: AI can assist teachers in preparation, delivery, assessment, and reporting.

For further information on the AI in Education initiative, please visit www.ai-in-education.co.uk.

AI In Education Conference: "Cut Through the AI Noise"

Following the launch of AI in Education, an upcoming event aims to provide school leaders with insights into the practical applications of AI in the classroom. Titled 'It's time to cut through the AI noise', this event will focus on the 'near horizon' for AI in Education, helping school leaders begin their AI planning journey.

The event will feature distinguished guest speakers, including:

• Baroness Barran, Minister for the School System.
• Neil Lawrence, University of Cambridge.
• Tom Nixon, Head of Government Practice at Faculty AI.
• Dan Sandhu, CEO of the Education Development Trust.
• Sir Anthony Seldon, Head of Epsom College.

To secure your place at 'It's time to cut through the AI noise', please visit AI in Education: Cut Through The Noise | Epsom College.

AI in Education promises to be a transformative initiative that has the potential to reshape the future of education, leveraging the power of AI for the benefit of all.