Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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414. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills for an update on her Department's policy on the use of artificial intelligence in schools. [51181/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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There is a need to ensure careful consideration about the use of AI in all aspects of teaching, learning and assessment, and that teachers and school leaders have the necessary resources and information to support them. While AI has the potential to enhance education and inclusion, there are also issues and challenges with its use.

The Digital Strategy for Schools to 2027 and its associated Implementation Plan set out the Departments policy on embedding the use of digital technology in teaching and learning. Pillar 3 of the Strategy sets out the commitment to consider and take account of emerging trends in the area of digital technologies in education and to develop appropriate and relevant guidance when required.

To this end the Department of Education with the support of Oide Technology in Education, is currently finalising guidance on the use of AI in teaching and learning. It is intended that this guidance will be published and circulated to schools shortly. It will provide information on the opportunities and risks associated with the use of AI and highlight what should be taken into consideration to inform schools and teachers on AI in education, and when considering the use of AI, to do so in a safe, ethical and responsible manner.

Extensive information and support for school leaders and teachers on AI in education can be found on the Oide TiE website at their dedicated AI hub. This includes resources developed through participation by OIDE-TiE in an EU project, AI4T, the EU Ethical Guidelines for Using AI in Teaching & Learning, and the UNESCO Guidance for generative AI in education and research.

Formal approval has issued from the EU Commission for a multi-country Technical Support Instrument (TSI) “Project Futureproof Education: Supporting schools in the AI evolution” with six partner jurisdictions, including Ireland. This project will support the development of strategies and tools for AI implementation in school education, providing guidance and tools to schools for ethical AI usage, enhancing digital literacy and inclusivity.

The Department is also examining what other Member States are doing in this space. Ongoing research, EU and national regulatory changes, and insights from Coimisiún na Meán and the AI Advisory Council will continue to guide the Department's efforts to assist schools and teachers in navigating the challenges and opportunities AI can bring to education.