Teachers across Australia have been grappling with how to support the safe and effective use of generative AI (GenAI) in schools. In response, Education Services Australia (ESA) and Microsoft have joined forces to create an online training solution that aligns with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and the Australian Government’s
Framework for Generative AI in Schools.
The training modules can help teachers unlock valuable personalised learning opportunities for students. This is a key initiative in Microsoft’s effort to train 1 million people across Australia and New Zealand in GenAI skills by 2026.
Participation in the training modules is free for teachers across Australia and New Zealand. The two modules address some of the most common teacher concerns regarding GenAI tools, such as the risk of generating inaccurate information. The content has been developed by subject matter experts, in consultation with school administrators and teachers, reviewed by leaders within the teaching community, and approved by the federal Department of Education.
ESA CEO Andrew Smith said: 'Generative AI is a developing technology that presents both opportunities and risks to school education. These modules offer an accessible avenue for Australia’s teachers to build their confidence and knowledge in using it safely and ethically, which will support our schools and education systems in achieving better outcomes as the technology evolves.'
Microsoft ANZ Education Director Adam Pollington said: 'Using the knowledge gained from these modules, teachers can be significantly more confident in using GenAI for their own benefit, as well as in tailoring learning experiences to improve accessibility and engagement for students.
'We know from examples in Australia that teachers can save an average of 9.3 hours per week through GenAI use, and that additional time can be repurposed to enhance student outcomes. Teachers play a critical role in driving responsible student GenAI use, so it is imperative that they lead the way, and this training will provide the opportunity to do so.'
Combining readiness with implementation strategies
Participants will receive a certificate for each module completed and the training will contribute to their professional development requirements. The first module,
AI Readiness: Preparing teachers for safe and effective use of GenAI, is available via ESA’s Digital Technologies Hub website.
Suitable for all teachers, this module explains how GenAI tools work and explores their limitations. It also details how to evaluate content created using these new technologies and check for bias, inaccuracies and misinformation. This knowledge will enhance teachers’ confidence, enabling them to make informed decisions about implementing and using GenAI effectively and ethically in the classroom.
Rebecca Weber, an expert in digital education from the South Australia Department for Education, said: 'The first module serves as an excellent preparation resource, in anticipation of the next module. For those new to the concept of GenAI, it provides a strong starting point. The use of examples and the breakdown of prompts are well executed.'
Module two,
AI Implementation: Strategies for guiding students in safe and effective use of GenAI, has been developed for those teaching students aged 13 and above, and builds on the foundations of module one. In this module, teachers will learn how to guide their students through various classroom activities with GenAI support, emphasising practical, age-appropriate classroom implementation. This module will be available in June.
Teachers can also take advantage of live online training sessions to complement the modules. These sessions provide a forum to explore the content further and ask questions.
About Education Services Australia
Education Services Australia (ESA) is a not-for-profit education technology company committed to making a positive difference in the lives and learning of Australian students. ESA works with all education systems and sectors to improve student outcomes, enhance teacher impact and strengthen school communities.
About Microsoft
Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organisation on the planet to achieve more.
