AQW 20339/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 10/01/2025
Answered On Date: 22/01/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education how Artificial Intelligence is being integrated into (i) teaching; (ii) learning; and (iii) administration in the education system to improve outcomes.

Answer:

In respect of integrating AI into teaching, the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Northern Ireland deliver Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes aligned with the Northern Ireland Curriculum, preparing future teachers for effective curriculum delivery. All HEIs introduce students to the topic of AI during ITE under ‘Digital Skills’ within the curriculum. ITE course coverage includes exploration of the impact and advancements in AI, as well as the opportunities and the challenges it brings.

The Education Authority is working alongside a cohort of 94 teachers and school leaders to pilot AI (Microsoft Copilot). The pilot, which is being independently assessed by Ulster University, will ascertain the benefits and disadvantages, whilst ensuring appropriate safety measures are in place.