For some years now, Australian teachers have been struggling with how to use AI for impact without compromising academic integrity, privacy and online safety in their classrooms.
The good news is that Australian teachers are increasingly getting around this learning curve, and they’ve just been given a further boost, thanks to a new online training initiative.
Education Services Australia (ESA) and Microsoft recently announced they are joining forces to create an online training solution that aligns with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and the Australian Government’s Framework for Generative AI in Schools.
What’s more, the new training modules – a key initiative in Microsoft’s effort to train 1 million people across Australia and New Zealand in GenAI skills by 2026 – are free for all teachers across Australia and New Zealand.
A whole-school strategy for GenAI
Matt Deeble, the GM of Impact & Engagement at ESA said the training modules help school leaders move beyond teacher-level training to embed a whole-school strategy for GenAI use that aligns with their unique school culture and learning priorities.
“A whole-school strategy to AI is vital and but fundamental to any approach will be teachers' confidence and skills in using Gen-AI inside and outside the classroom,” Deeble told The Educator.
“They play a critical role in leading responsible AI use. And so, the goal of these modules is to provide foundational understanding and skills. Schools can use the modules as they build their strategy and create shared understanding in professional learning networks.”
Combining readiness with implementation strategies
Upon completing each module, participants will receive a certificate, and the training will contribute to their professional development requirements.
The first module, AI Readiness: Preparing teachers for safe and effective use of GenAI, is available via the ESA Digital Technologies Hub website. Suitable for all teachers, this module explains how GenAI tools work and explores their limitations. It also details how to evaluate content created using these new technologies and check for bias, inaccuracies, and misinformation. This knowledge will enhance teachers’ confidence, enabling them to make informed decisions about implementing and using GenAI effectively and ethically in the classroom.
One of the most common concerns teachers have raised with ESA is around the risk of Gen AI producing inaccurate results, says Deeble.
“These training modules are designed to help teachers make use of technology safely and effectively,” he said. “The first module in particular, explains how AI works and explores its limitations.
Deeble said the module helps teachers build confidence by showing how to evaluate results, check for biases, inaccuracies and misinformation.
“The aim is to support teachers make more informed decisions about when and where to use Gen AI appropriately in the classroom.”
Deeble said an important role for principals is developing the capabilities of their teachers to safely and effectively use GenAI, adding that this improves teacher confidence and in turn helps parents experience their school making the most of the new opportunities whilst protecting their students.
“The second of the two modules we've developed helps teachers learn how to guide students through various classroom activities with Gen AI support, emphasising practical, age-appropriate classroom implementation,” he said.
“Of course, that also means helping students avoid inadvertently share personal data and understanding the privacy implications.”
‘A strong starting point for those who are new to GenAI’
Rebecca Weber, an expert in digital education from the South Australia Department for Education, said the first module serves as “an excellent preparation resource”, in anticipation of the next module.
“For those new to the concept of GenAI, it provides a strong starting point. The use of examples and the breakdown of prompts are well executed,” Weber said.
“Module two, AI Implementation: Strategies for guiding students in safe and effective use of GenAI, has been developed for those teaching students aged 13 and above and builds on the foundations of module one.”
Weber said this module, which will be available this month, shows teachers how to guide their students through various classroom activities with GenAI support, emphasising practical, age-appropriate classroom implementation.
“Teachers can also take advantage of live online training sessions to complement the modules, with sessions also providing a forum to explore the content further and ask questions.”
Helping teachers lead the way in responsible GenAI use
Microsoft ANZ Education Director Adam Pollington said using the knowledge gained from the modules, teachers can be significantly more confident in using GenAI for their own benefit, as well as in tailoring learning experiences to improve accessibility and engagement for students.
“We know from examples in Australia that teachers can save an average of 9.3 hours per week through GenAI use, and that additional time can be repurposed to enhance student outcomes,” Pollington said.
“Teachers play a critical role in driving responsible student GenAI use, so it is imperative that they lead the way, and this training will provide the opportunity to do so.”