Harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence in the classroom
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming ubiquitous in modern life. Since ChatGPT first entered the mainstream in late 2022, teachers and school leaders have been embracing new ways to integrate AI and technology into the classroom.
While some worry about the impact tools like chatbots might have on student learning, AI can be used to enhance the classroom experience for both students and teachers. Instead of fearing AI, educators should look for ways to incorporate AI and technology into their classrooms, to ease workloads, streamline processes, and make material more accessible to all students.
The Federal Government’s Framework for Generative AI in Schools says that AI technology has “great potential to assist teaching and learning and reduce administrative workload.” Increasingly accessible and sophisticated, AI provides opportunities not previously possible. Chances are, you’re already using AI apps in your classroom, and you might not even realise.
A 2023 report found that just over 70 percent of primary teachers and up to 80 percent of secondary teachers were using AI tools in their work. Teachers said AI tools saved them time, allowing them to quickly develop learning tasks for students. Reduced administrative stress, quick lesson alterations to suit different learning needs and making lessons more interactive were also cited as key benefits to using AI.
When managed well, and with necessary safeguards in place, AI can provide notable advantages for teachers and students.
BenQ is a global leader in display solutions and classroom technology and is supporting schools to use AI technology safely and productively. BenQ Australia managing director Martin Moelle said: “AI in education is becoming a powerful tool, and the use of AI in classrooms will continue to increase. Many brands are releasing products that contain AI software to assist educators.”
Martin highlighted several areas of learning and teaching that can be enhanced by technology and sometimes Artificial Intelligence as well.
- Digital content libraries provide students with access to a range of academic and research materials
- Presentations help present learning materials in a more visual manner, catering to different learning needs
- Built in AI features, such as Instashare 2’s AI Lens helps identify plants and insects in real-time (Available on the BenQ Board)
- Posting homework assignments online improves accessibility for students and supports better organisation
- Teachers can streamline processes through online grading systems
- Interactive flat panels enhance classroom engagement through collaborative activities, dynamic lessons and active interaction with digital content
- Educational apps such as Kahoot promote interactive and engaging learning experiences
- Interactive games help develop foundational skills, especially for young learners in early childhood education and care
Interactive whiteboards, computers and VR headsets can all be leveraged in classrooms for teaching and learning. These devices come with a range of software solutions to enhance learning, catering for different learning styles and a broad scope of activities.
One small scale study conducted in a tertiary US context demonstrated the potential of technology to improve student engagement. The study found that student participation in class, preparation for class, attentiveness, learning and impression of the course and instructor tends to improve when technology is well utilised.
“BenQ Interactive whiteboards are an example of technology that helps benefit both teachers and students,” Martin said. “Software such as AMS, EZWrite 6, and Instashare 2 help create a more seamless teaching experience for teachers and encourage students to actively participate.”
For teachers, AI presents many opportunities to improve their teaching practice and build on their existing skills. “Generative AI will offer immediate access to professional growth and support resources in a range of areas. For Instance, it can assist in developing well-organised drafts for both whole-class and individualised lesson plans.
“AI can also be used to analyse student performance data and tailor lessons to individual learning needs. For example, the new models of the BenQ IFP have the EZWrite 6 software which allows teachers to teach without boundaries with the ability to draw, insert text in files, or add images. Educators are empowered to engage every learner through AI-powered text-to-speech and multi-language translation
“Additionally, software like InstaShare 2 facilitates seamless screen sharing to encourage participation. The new Artificial Intelligence update allows live identification of insects and plants.”
With AI technology evolving quickly, staying up to date with all available resources and best practice for using them may seem complicated. To make things simple, BenQ has released a comprehensive, easy to follow guide to AI, detailing apps which are compatible with the BenQ Board. Much more than your average whiteboard, BenQ Board leverages technology and Artificial Intelligence software to improve file accessibility and sharing, provide enhanced security, reach students working remotely, translate content into multiple languages, and from text-to-speech, plus much more.
To find out how you could make the most of AI software and technology in your classroom
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