This week I report on the DfE’s position on the use of AI and its updated guidance on meeting digital and technology standards in schools.

AI guidance released by both the DfE and JCQ
The DfE has set out its position on the use of AI, including language models like ChatGPT, in the Education sector. Its policy paper covers factors such as AI’s potential to reduce staff workload, the potential for malpractice in exams, and data protection. In addition, the JCQ has published guidance on how to protect the integrity of qualifications to meet the challenges posed by AI. This includes advice on how to identify AI-produced work and using direct supervision to authenticate coursework.

DfE updates filtering and monitoring standards for schools
To complement its new policy paper on AI, the DfE has updated its guidance ‘Meeting digital and technology standards in schools and colleges’. New filtering and monitoring standards have been added, alongside new sections on cloud solution standards and servers and storage standards.