In a significant development, Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology has unveiled guidelines permitting the limited use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in schools. These guidelines, announced on Tuesday, will allow elementary, junior high, and high schools to harness the potential of AI technology, such as ChatGPT, for educational purposes.
The ministry’s guidelines emphasize the need for caution when introducing AI to elementary school students, highlighting that passing off AI-generated work as one’s own will be considered cheating. While the importance of familiarizing students with AI and its applications is acknowledged, concerns regarding the potential negative impact on critical thinking and other skills have been taken into account.
Initially, the guidelines will only permit a restricted use of AI in schools, and the ministry plans to select a number of junior high and high schools by fall to participate in AI trials. The outcomes of these trials will inform future revisions of the guidelines.
While the integration of AI into education is expected to enhance learning outcomes, the guidelines caution against potential risks, including personal data breaches, copyright infringements, and the potential dampening of students’ creativity and motivation. The document emphasizes the importance of educating children about the ethical considerations associated with AI, given its pervasive presence in various fields.
To ensure responsible usage, the guidelines provide examples of inappropriate AI use, such as students passing off AI-generated work as their own or employing AI during examinations. Furthermore, students are advised against inputting personal information into AI tools and are urged to comply with copyright regulations.
The guidelines propose utilizing AI as a means to introduce additional perspectives into classroom discussions. Students and teachers are encouraged to critically evaluate the accuracy and reliability of AI-generated information.
Consideration for Elementary School Students
The guidelines urge careful consideration when introducing AI to elementary school students, aligning with Chat GPT’s terms of use, which recommend its usage for individuals aged 13 and above. While the guidelines do not explicitly mention it, ministry officials have suggested that elementary school students under the age of 13 may be permitted to use AI to a certain extent under the guidance of teachers.
Developed by U.S. tech firm OpenAI, ChatGPT and similar generative AI programs leverage vast amounts of internet data to engage in human-like conversations or generate images based on user instructions. Although the potential of AI in education is vast, it must be introduced responsibly and ethically, with the guidelines serving as a valuable framework for schools and educators.
The introduction of AI into Japanese schools marks a significant step towards embracing technological advancements in education. By striking a balance between leveraging the benefits of AI and mitigating potential risks, Japan aims to equip its students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the evolving digital landscape effectively. With the careful implementation of AI, Japan’s education system can foster a generation of learners prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
© KYODO
