Education Services Australia and Microsoft have introduced a free online training programme designed to help teachers in Australia and New Zealand use generative AI safely and effectively in schools.
The collaboration between the two organisations follows concerns among educators about the risks and opportunities posed by generative AI tools in the classroom and aligns with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and the Australian Government's Framework for Generative AI in Schools.
The training modules are part of Microsoft's broader initiative to equip one million people in Australia and New Zealand with generative AI skills by 2026, providing teachers with accessible resources to enhance student learning experiences through AI.
The two modules aim to address common concerns held by teachers, such as the possibility of AI generating inaccurate information. Content for the modules has been created by subject matter experts, with input from school administrators and teachers, and reviewed by leaders within the teaching community before being approved by the federal Department of Education.
Andrew Smith, Chief Executive Officer at Education Services Australia, said: "Generative AI is a developing technology that presents both opportunities and risks to school education. These modules offer an accessible avenue for Australia's teachers to build their confidence and knowledge in using it safely and ethically, which will support our schools and education systems in achieving better outcomes as the technology evolves."
Adam Pollington, Education Director at Microsoft Australia and New Zealand, commented: "Using the knowledge gained from these 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. 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."
Upon completion of each module, participants receive a certificate, which contributes towards teachers' professional development requirements. The first module, "AI Readiness: Preparing teachers for safe and effective use of GenAI", is currently available through the ESA Digital Technologies Hub website.
This module is suitable for all teachers and covers the fundamentals of how generative AI tools work and what their limitations are. It also addresses methods to evaluate AI-generated content, including detecting bias, inaccuracies, and misinformation, with the aim of empowering teachers to make informed decisions about ethical and effective AI implementation in their classrooms.
Rebecca Weber, 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."
The second module, "AI Implementation: Strategies for guiding students in safe and effective use of GenAI", is designed for teachers working with students aged 13 and above and builds on the principles introduced in the first module. This upcoming course aims to help teachers introduce AI-supported classroom activities that are practical and age-appropriate. It is scheduled to be available in June.
In addition to the online modules, live online training sessions are available to provide further opportunities for teachers to discuss the content and ask questions, supporting deeper understanding and application in real-world educational settings.
Education Services Australia is a non-profit education technology organisation working with stakeholders across all education sectors to improve outcomes for Australian students, while Microsoft has a stated commitment to making AI broadly available and supporting responsible use through skills development programmes.
