Category: AI
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Multimodal Discourse and Generative AI

I’ve been re-reading Kress and Van Leeuwen’s 2001 book, Multimodal Discourse for the nth time, and, despite showing its age in some areas, it still offers some great language for discussing Generative AI. Kress and Van Leeuwen presented a new theory of multimodal semiotics, designed up update monomodal theories of communication with new technologies in…
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Racist, Robotic, and Random: More Thoughts on Generative AI Grading

There has been a surge in discussions on using generative AI for assessment and grading, sparking polarised views on its potential biases and impacts. Research and personal experiments have revealed concerns about AI’s capability and fairness in grading, particularly in regards to racial bias. The black box nature of AI poses challenges, and while it…
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Education doesn’t need more sparkle ✨

The education system is often deemed broken, but in reality, it is working as designed. While technology may claim to “revolutionize education”, it often fails to address societal and cultural shifts impacting education. Technological solutions, like Microsoft’s “add sparkle” feature, demonstrate a lack of understanding and respect for educators. True progress lies in supporting educators…
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GenAI Across the Disciplines: Visual Communication Design with Melissa Avery

Over the next couple of months I’ll be speaking with teachers across the disciplines to understand how they’re using Generative AI in their subject areas. I’ve recently published a series on Generative AI Strategy for Faculty Leaders, and I believe it’s incredibly important to understand the different implications of the technology in a range of…
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How Artificial Intelligence Can Catch Up With Pedagogy

I’m calling bullshit on the idea that pedagogy needs to catch up with AI. As an educator who uses AI, I know firsthand its profound limitations. Technologists’ view of education is condescending and contemptuous. AI companies need to spend time in classrooms and update themselves on modern pedagogy.
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Chatbots STILL aren’t the future of AI in education… so what is?

I’ve criticised the focus on chatbots in education, especially those using Generative AI as “homework helpers” and personalised tutors. I think these tools are limited and not aligned with the future of AI applications, or a solid understanding of pedagogy. The education sector is being left behind as tech companies prioritise more advanced AI developments.…
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GenAI Across the Disciplines: Design and Technology with Philip Murdoch

Over the next couple of months I’ll be speaking with teachers across the disciplines to understand how they’re using Generative AI in their subject areas. I’ve recently published a series on Generative AI Strategy for Faculty Leaders, and I believe it’s incredibly important to understand the different implications of the technology in a range of…
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Ethics, assessment, and the (near) future of Generative AI

This post provides an update on the AISNSW ICT Management and Leadership conference, including discussions and presentations on various topics related to technology in education. Day one focused on AI ethics and its implications, day two on AI in assessments, and day three featured a closing keynote on the future of generative AI. The post…
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Generative AI might finally kill off homework, and it’s about time

I’ve taught across a range of subjects and year levels for over fifteen years, and I’ve always been a bit dismissive when it comes to homework. It probably goes back to my own days as a student, when I did everything in my power to avoid doing work outside of school. Back then, I surreptitiously…
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Don’t use GenAI to grade student work

As a former secondary English teacher, senior examination assessor, and lecturer for initial teacher education, I understand the allure of using Generative AI (GenAI) for grading student work. We’re all familiar with the workload of assessment and reporting. The idea of a tool that could save time and streamline the grading process is undeniably appealing.…