The UNESCO initiative aimed at regulating the use of generative AI in schools is a significant step towards promoting ethical use of this powerful technology in the field of education. The publication of the Global Guide for Generative AI in Education and Research is a crucial effort to frame this rapid evolution while ensuring that human values, inclusion, and equity remain at the core of the process.
One of the key measures proposed by this guide is the establishment of a minimum age limit of 13 for the use of generative AI tools in the classroom. This restriction is designed to protect younger students from potential harmful effects of these technologies and to ensure their responsible use. However, it is also important to acknowledge that teacher training is an essential element of this regulation. Teachers need to be equipped with the necessary skills to use these tools pedagogically and ethically, ensuring their positive impact on student learning.
Regarding the objectives of the guide, it is crucial to raise awareness among education stakeholders about different generative AI technologies and currently available models. This will enable teachers and educators to make informed decisions about their use in the classroom. Policy recommendations to regulate these technologies are also crucial in establishing standards and guidelines that ensure ethical and responsible use.
An important aspect of this guide is the co-design of generative AI applications in research, teaching, and learning. This means that educators, researchers, and technology developers will collaborate to create applications that meet the specific needs of education, thereby promoting more effective use of generative AI.
It is also noteworthy to mention the emergence of new generative pre-training models specific to education, such as EduGPT. These models have the potential to transform how education is delivered by providing personalized resources and encouraging creativity and critical thinking in students.
The growing use of generative AI in education has raised legitimate concerns about governance and regulation. The lack of formal guidelines in many schools and universities is concerning, emphasizing the need for immediate action to avoid unregulated deployment of these technologies. The guide’s recommendations aim to fill this gap by encouraging the establishment of institutional policies and national regulations.
Ultimately, generative AI has the potential to revolutionize education by offering new opportunities for learning, creativity, and research. However, it is imperative that this revolution occurs ethically and responsibly, always prioritizing the interests of students and teachers. UNESCO plays a crucial role in providing guidance and recommendations to steer this transition towards informed use of generative AI in the field of education.
Sources :
Delabia, N. (2023). « L’UNESCO veut réglementer l’usage de l’IA générative à l’école ». Available here: https://www.planetegrandesecoles.com/unesco-ia
UNESCO (2023). « Guide pour l’IA générative dans l’éducation et la recherche ». Available here: https://www.unesco.org/fr/digital-education/ai-future-learning/guidance
