"Artificial intelligence is transforming the world around us…we must make sure education is not left behind."  So said Gillian Keegan, Secretary of State for Education, at the announcement of a new call for evidence on generative artificial intelligence in education.

The call for evidence seeks to explore the opportunities AI technology presents for education, as well as understanding the concerns of educators and experts in education.  The Department for Education wants to hear more about first-hand experience of using the technology in schools, colleges and universities; the risks and challenges as well as the benefits, including impacts for specific subjects.  Predictions for how AI may be used in the future are also sought.

This appeal for information follows the DfE’s earlier statement which recognised that although generative AI is not new, recent advances and access to the technology mean that the public can now use it to produce AI-generated content which poses opportunities and challenges for the education sector.

The deadline for responses to the call for evidence is 23 August 2023.