Call for evidence launched on AI benefits and risks

The Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has launched a call for evidence to find views on using artificial intelligence to transform education in a positive way.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT and Google Bard are already making a difference in schools, but more work is needed to understand the benefits and get ahead of the risks that the technology could bring.

As a result, the government is seeking views and experiences from education professionals across the schools, colleges, universities and early years sector. The call for evidence will asks for views on risks, ethical considerations, and training for education workers.

The call to evidence marks an important starting point, with the results providing a base to inform future work. This includes how AI could be used to reduce workload, improve outcomes, and run operations more efficiently as well as work around misuse such as essay bots and cheating in exams.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said at London Tech Week: "Artificial intelligence is going to transform the world around us and help grow the economy. The workforces that are best equipped with the skills and knowledge they need will be the ones that ride the wave. We must make sure education is one of them.

"For that potential to be realised, we – the government, our schools, colleges and universities - need to be able to understand those opportunities, as well as the real risks new technology brings.

"That’s why we want to kick start a conversation with experts from across education and technology to hear their views and learn from their experiences. This will help us make the right decisions to get the best out of generative AI in a safe and secure way."