Weekly Newsletter - 06.06.2024

Rethinking Assessments with Generative AI and Enhancing SEND Students Accessibility with iPads

Author

UKGovTech
June 06, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes

AI & Education

The rise of generative AI has prompted educators to rethink traditional assessment methods. Dr. Helen Crompton suggests redesigning assessments to leverage AI as a learning tool rather than banning it. Challenges include AI-generated content being mistaken for students' work and biases in AI models. Short-term strategies involve requiring citations and encouraging collaboration. Long-term solutions focus on real-world tasks, critical analysis, and debates with AI. Educators need support to master AI tools and create effective assessments. Embracing AI could enrich student learning and foster deeper understanding.

AI-Enhanced Learning

South Lanarkshire, Scotland, will implement Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in schools following extensive stakeholder engagement. Generative AI, capable of creating new content like texts and images, will offer exciting opportunities for students. The initiative includes research, a working group at Uddingston Grammar, and pilot programs with sixth-year students. A draft guidance document has been produced to support schools and will be regularly updated. South Lanarkshire Education Resources will collaborate at local, regional, and national levels to ensure effective implementation of the program.

Technology & Accessibility

Heathfield Community College uses iPads to enhance accessibility for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The school employs features like speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and digital note-sharing to support learning. Students can also take photos of lesson materials, use translation tools, and access lesson resources digitally. These tools help students work independently and build resilience. The 1:1 iPad program ensures all students and staff use similar devices, with staff monitoring usage and students required to have headphones. These strategies benefit all students, not just those with SEND.

GenAI-Powered Learning

A Jisc report reveals that UK students want generative AI (genAI) integrated into their curriculum, despite rising concerns about ethics and equity. Based on discussions with over 200 students, the report identifies five focus areas: genAI literacy, academic integrity, responsible use, equity, and employment. Students seek a collaborative learning environment with genAI but are worried about bias and accessibility. They urge educators to address these issues responsibly and inclusively. The report stresses the need for AI-literate educators and comprehensive policies to ensure fair and effective genAI use in education.

Local Authority Challenges

North Yorkshire is experiencing a 400% increase in autism care plans for individuals under 25, causing significant pressure on local resources. The surge has exposed funding and staffing challenges, with autism now the most common primary need in the county. Despite improvements in processing times, the council faces a backlog and a shortage of educational psychologists. Additional government funding of £600 million has been announced, but concerns remain due to the ongoing rise in demand. Councillors debate whether the council has been proactive enough in addressing these issues.

Policy & Reform

County council leaders are urging the next government to address the high costs of children's services. The County Councils Network (CCN) calls for a price cap on residential care providers and reduced home-to-school transport costs for SEND children. Facing a £2 billion funding shortfall, the CCN emphasizes the need for reforms and a sustainable funding settlement. Cross-party leaders warn that without additional funding and reform, local services could reach a breaking point. Sector organizations and children's charities also support increased funding and implementation of Care Review recommendations.

Education & Development

A new special needs school in Rayleigh, Essex, has received support from senior councillors. The school, accommodating 190 children, will be the first of its kind in Rochford district. It will be funded by the Department for Education and developer contributions. Essex County Council has faced criticism for delays in assessing children with special needs, with some families waiting over a year. The new school aims to address the shortage of special school places in Essex, with an estimated 612 additional places needed by 2026. Planning permission is pending.

Childcare & Workforce

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has highlighted the urgent need for 40,000 additional staff and 84,500 more childcare places by 2025 to meet England's childcare entitlements. The Department for Education (DfE) faces significant challenges, including underfunding, cost pressures, and recruitment issues. The PAC recommends interim milestones, contingency plans, and a long-term workforce strategy. It also stresses the importance of monitoring the program's impact on disadvantaged children and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), as well as ensuring the quality of early years education.