Understand the impacts of Generative AI on education and what this has to do with the work of the Tellescom Foundation.
Generative Artificial Intelligence: How is it redefining public education and what role of the Tellescom Foundation in this?
And although 75% of Brazilian educators agree, partially or totally, with the use of AI tools in teaching, these new opportunities are the subject of many doubts and questions. Among them:
- How can we guarantee adequate technological infrastructure and the continuous training of teaching staff?
- How can we prevent students from using these tools to commit plagiarism?
- How is it possible to balance the use of technology with the promotion of critical and analytical skills?
- These are issues that require reflection and the search for effective solutions.
In this article, you will understand the impact of this new technology in classrooms and the role of the Tellescom Foundation in this context. Read on to learn more!
Generative AI: a revolution in teaching and learning
When we talk about technological innovation, one of the most exciting advances is generative AI. A branch of artificial intelligence capable of generating original content, such as texts, images, music or code, from existing examples.
Tools such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, DALL-E and MidJourney are examples of generative AI that are already being widely used.
This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way teachers work, both in terms of teaching methodology and interaction with students.
Its use opens up countless possibilities for boosting the pedagogical process. You can see some of them below:
Personalizing learning
Generative AI helps teachers generate lesson plans, exercises and teaching materials adapted to the individual needs of each student. This allows for more targeted teaching, capable of catering to different abilities and learning rhythms.
Automation of repetitive tasks
Correcting tests, drawing up lesson plans and creating exercise lists are all time-consuming tasks. With generative AI, it’s possible to streamline these processes and reduce teachers’ workload.
More stimulation in the classroom
Teachers can use AI tools to develop presentations, quizzes, interactive simulations and educational content aligned with students’ interests, making lessons more dynamic and engaging.
Generative AI in Brazilian Education
The adoption of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Brazilian secondary schools has shown remarkable progress, both on the part of students and teachers.
A survey perform by Google, in partnership with Educa Insights, revealed that 30% of Brazilian students use AI tools in their academic activities. In addition, 70% of those interviewed are familiar with the concept of AI, and 76% believe in the need for greater incorporation of technology in schools.
As far as teaching staff are concerned, a study by the Semesp Institute indicated that 75% of Brazilian educators agree, partially or totally, with the use of AI tools in teaching.
As we can see, there is growing acceptance and integration of generative AI in secondary education in Brazil. However, its implementation in the public network still faces major challenges, such as the lack of adequate technological infrastructure, limited connectivity and the need for continuing training for educators.
Unesco and the Six Pillars of Digital Transformation in Education
The Six Pillars of Digital Transformation in Education, created by UNESCO in partnership with other organizations, offer a strategic guide to facing these challenges, promoting an ethical and human-centered approach to technological integration. Shall we get to know them?
1 – Coordination and Leadership
Strategic leadership is crucial for digital transformation. This pillar focuses on:
- Clear goals: aligning educational objectives with national priorities.
- Solid governance: ensuring the ethical and safe use of technology.
- Inclusive management: involving teachers, communities and the private sector.
2 – Connectivity and Infrastructure
It addresses internet access, devices and digital environments. Priorities:
- Expanding connectivity: bringing internet and energy to rural areas.
- Accessible devices: providing suitable tools for students and teachers.
- Adapted environments: creating spaces for digital and hybrid learning.
3 – Cost and sustainability
Guarantees the financial and environmental viability of the digital transformation. Main focus:
- Diversified financing: mobilizing public and private resources.
- Efficiency in spending: directing investments towards concrete results.
- Sustainable practices: using green technologies and recycling equipment.
4 – Training and Culture
Transformation depends on prepared and engaged people. Highlights:
- Skills of the future: updating curricula with digital competencies.
- Continuous training: training teachers to use digital pedagogies.
- Community engagement: involving families in the learning process.
5 – Content and Solutions
Promotes quality digital content aligned with curricula. Priorities:
- Secure platforms: implementing accessible solutions for everyone.
- Open resources: creating free and culturally inclusive materials.
- Innovation: personalizing learning with AI and gamification.
6 – Data and Evidence
It uses data for more assertive educational decisions. Main focus:
- Data analysis: generating insights to improve teaching.
- Security: protecting student and teacher information.
- Ethical AI: personalizing learning responsibly.
For these changes to be truly beneficial, it is essential to ensure that technology is used as an ally and not as a substitute for human interaction.
According to Americo Mattar, CEO of the Tellescom Foundation, the pedagogical use of AI will never replace the role of the teacher, but rather help to boost active methodologies and the didactic process in the classroom.
“An unprecedented opportunity to transform education, training students who are more connected to the contemporary world and who can increasingly interact in society and fully develop their abilities.”
Tellescom Foundation and the Challenges of Generative AI in Brazilian Education
There is no doubt that we need to broaden the debate on the subject and join forces to maintain the pedagogical integrity and conscientious application of generative AI.
In this context, teacher training plays a central role, ensuring that digital tools are applied ethically, responsibly and in line with pedagogical objectives.
And this is one of the Tellescom Foundation’s main purposes: to promote initiatives aimed at empowering educators by providing them with the tools and knowledge to effectively integrate innovative technologies into their teaching practices.
To find out more about this topical issue:
- Get to know IA.Edu, the Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Education, supported by the Tellescom Foundation: https://iaedu.nees.ufal.br/
- Also check out the study: What would be the impact on Basic Education if Bill 2338/2023 were approved today?
- Check out the exclusive webinar promoted by the Tellescom Foundation, in partnership with NEES and IA.Edu, on Artificial Intelligence and its impact on teaching.