Cabinet aims for public AI environment for schools in 2028

The cabinet has presented plans for the establishment of a public AI environment for schools and teachers in primary and secondary education, which should be operational by 2028. This environment is intended to provide schools access to various AI models and educational applications within a reliable and safe context. State Secretary Tielen explains that the current AI tools from commercial providers are often not aligned with the needs of education, which leads to this development. In the letter to the House of Representatives, a budget of 10.7 million euros for 2024 and a structural amount of 7.4 million euros is announced.

Tielen emphasizes that schools currently have too little insight into the AI tools from external providers. There is uncertainty about how these tools process data, what conditions are attached to them, and how they relate to the models used. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for schools to keep up in the rapidly changing world of AI applications. The state secretary points out that developments in the field of AI are progressing rapidly and that it is necessary to create a solid infrastructure that enables schools to safely use this technology.

While learning with AI can potentially lead to better educational outcomes, Tielen emphasizes that this effect depends on how students deploy AI. Research shows that students who use AI to assess the quality of information and are actively engaged in their learning process perform better than their peers who simply use AI to complete assignments. According to the state secretary, the latter leads to average lower scores, indicating that a thoughtful use of AI is essential for a positive impact on learning.

The core of the planned AI environment is the AI hub, which will serve as the central technical junction. This hub provides schools access to various AI models and applications, and is surrounded by a shared infrastructure and a register of available models. Guidelines will also be established for the safe and responsible use of AI in education. Despite the introduction of this hub, schools remain free to choose which tools and applications they offer their teachers and students, including those from commercial providers.

Read the full article from AI Insider.