Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 May 2026
88. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Education and Youth how the findings from the AI pilot projects (DALI4US, AI4T, FACTaL, ACT AI, AI DL), and the work of the AI External Advisory Taskforce, will be integrated into future versions of the AI guidance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35518/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Guidance on AI in Schools serves as an initial step toward the safe, effective and responsible use of AI in schools. It works to provide a common understanding of AI and sets out principles, aligned to the Responsible Use of AI in the Public Service as well as providing practical approaches to supporting schools with a roadmap on the use of AI and general examples of how AI can be used in relation to teaching and learning, planning and preparation and in school leadership and management.
The guidance is currently being reviewed to take account of recent EU publications as well as research and feedback from education stakeholders as well as the findings from the AI pilots referenced in the question. The Department is working closely with Oide TiE in the development of the next version of the Guidance and as the Deputy may be aware, Oide TiE are involved in all of the AI pilots listed. The learnings from these pilots will be included in future iterations of the Guidance as well as in the development of further supports and resources in the area of AI and education.
As regards the AI External Advisory Taskforce, the first meeting is scheduled for May 14th. The aim of this is to provide a structured mechanism for engagement with key education stakeholders, along with the provision of additional expert input which will support the further development of evidence-informed advice and practical outputs on the safe, responsible and effective use of AI in schools, while having regard to relevant legal and regulatory requirements. A quarterly report will be submitted to the Minister on the progress of the Taskforce and as outputs and recommendations are developed, these will be taken into consideration in future iterations of the Guidance.
