Northern Ireland has convened stakeholders through the “AI in Education in Northern Ireland Conference” bringing together representatives from the Department of Education, Education Authority, and CCEA (Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment) to discuss the use of AI in classrooms.
While the Department of Education recognizes that AI can support curriculum planning, create interactive learning environments, and provide real-time assessments, AI education policy in Northern Ireland remains in the early engagement phase rather than binding curriculum mandate or policy.
Who it affects: Department of Education; CCEA; Education Authority; school leaders; teachers; pupils.
What is notably missing: Clear binding curriculum mandate for AI literacy; specification of what will be taught and at which key stages; timeline for policy implementation; clarity on resource allocation and teacher training support.