Artificial Intelligence (AI) is seemingly the hottest topic in the digital space right now, with excitement about the newfound efficiencies as well as trepidation for what this new technology means for the world. In teaching contexts, AI can be used by educators to streamline what many class as the more mundane side of teaching, the parts that are separated from student contact, involving hours of administration and tedious effort (Celik et al., 2022; Humble & Mozelius, 2019). While AI needs to be treated with caution, it can be used to free up time and energy for teachers to do what they do best, engage students and inspire learning.

AI chatbots, like Chat GPT are best used like a virtual personal assistant. They can aid in ideas for examples, a quick research tool or be useful in the creation of assessments. These models can help create tests, worked solutions and even produce documents for you. The efficiency gain can free up more teacher time for student contact, or for teachers to gain more of that important work-life balance. Further to this, these models can be used to create differentiated and scaffolded approaches to revision questions that aid in providing adequate material for students of all abilities and needs.

For students, AI presents a revolutionary way to change how revision, summary and questioning are addressed, with many opportunities to gain quick insights into hwo problems are approached, or the prevailing opinions on a particular topic. While much is made of the ability of these models to give students the opportunity to produce work that is not completed themselves, an overall understanding of both the limitations and benefits of these technologies for everyone involved is critical in their beneficial integration in the classroom.

While AI certainly presents challenges, the benefits that its selective use can bring, and its march into being a core technology of the future demands at least aptitude and understanding of its involvement in the classroom. To get started on your journey into understanding the benefits, dangers and limitations of AI, follow the links below!