Artificial intelligence is increasingly being integrated into Australian classrooms, with over 100 high schools testing a locally developed generative AI tool. This technology reportedly improved students' work quality by nearly 50%.
The initiative follows an inquiry recommending generative AI as a national priority in education, while also emphasizing the need for safeguards to protect children.
Education Perfect, the technology provider, conducted a study involving 15,000 students and over 200,000 responses over ten weeks. The AI tool evaluates quiz answers, assigning scores and offering feedback to enhance students' performance.
According to co-founder Shane Smith, the AI feedback improved students' average scores from 2.4 to 3.6 stars, alleviating some of the grading burden on teachers. Smith noted that teachers often struggle to provide timely feedback due to high response volumes.
Hillcrest Christian College in Victoria reported positive reactions from both students and teachers during the trial. Deputy head Paul Locke highlighted the value of instant feedback, which allowed students to receive support without waiting for teacher attention.
While there were initial concerns about AI facilitating cheating, Locke advocated for a more nuanced approach, focusing on AI's potential to enhance learning rather than detract from teaching. An inquiry in August recommended integrating generative AI into curricula, along with necessary safeguards.