Day: 17 October 2025

From Textbook to a Second Teacher: How AI Has Changed Study

GenAI:N3 Leave a comment
A split image illustrating the evolution of studying. The left side shows a young male student in a warmly lit, traditional setting, deeply engrossed in reading a physical textbook under a desk lamp, with other books around him. The right side shows the same student, but in a modern, blue-lit setting, smiling as he interacts with a laptop. A glowing, holographic AI tutor in the shape of a friendly, simplistic figure hovers above his laptop, surrounded by intricate data visualizations and educational content, symbolizing AI as a "second teacher." Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.
The landscape of learning is transforming dramatically. This image contrasts the traditional method of studying with textbooks against the modern approach, where AI has emerged as a dynamic “second teacher,” offering personalised guidance and insights that are fundamentally changing how students learn. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.

Source

The Post (New Zealand)

Summary

Hanna McCallum reports on how artificial intelligence is reshaping study habits, teaching methods, and classroom culture in New Zealand schools. Students at Wellington East Girls’ College describe AI as a “second teacher” that provides on-demand academic support, while educators work to build digital literacy and responsible-use frameworks. Some students view AI as empowering—enhancing access to personalised study tools and creative learning—while others fear it undermines independent thinking and deep learning. Teachers and experts note growing divides between schools that embrace AI and those that resist it, with potential long-term effects on cognitive development. As one lecturer observes, AI can either accelerate learning or encourage intellectual shortcuts depending on how students use it.

Key Points

  • Students describe AI as a “second teacher” offering instant academic assistance.
  • Wellington East Girls’ College is developing an AI strategy focusing on staff training and digital literacy.
  • Some students report overreliance on AI, while others feel left behind without it.
  • Educators warn that unmanaged AI use may reduce critical thinking and motivation.
  • University experts note widening gaps between AI-literate students and those from AI-restricted schools.

Keywords

, , , , , , ,

URL

https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360856298/textbook-second-teacher-how-ai-has-changed-study

Summary generated by ChatGPT 5

GenAI News

AI-Generated Lesson Plans Fall Short on Inspiring Students and Promoting Critical Thinking

GenAI:N3 Leave a comment
A bright, modern classroom with rows of diverse students seated at individual desks, diligently working on laptops and taking notes. Above them, a large, glowing holographic projection of a generic, flowchart-style "LESSON PLAN" floats. Stamped diagonally across this lesson plan in red, bold letters is a censor-like bar that reads "LACKS INSPIRATION, NO CRITICAL THINKING," indicating its shortcomings. On the right side of the image, one student's laptop and notebook are surrounded by vibrant, colorful holographic icons and data representing creativity and rich learning, contrasting with the generic lesson plan. Lightbulb icons, some dimly lit, are also visible. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.
While AI offers efficiency in creating lesson plans, a new report suggests that these automated curricula often fall short in fostering student inspiration and promoting essential critical thinking skills. This visual highlights the gap between AI-generated structures and the nuanced needs of engaging pedagogy. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.

Source

The Conversation

Summary

Torrey Trust reports that AI-generated lesson plans, though convenient, fail to promote higher-order thinking and inclusivity in the classroom. In a study analysing 311 AI-created civics lesson plans from ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot, 90 per cent of activities were found to encourage only basic recall and comprehension rather than critical or creative thinking. Using frameworks such as Bloom’s taxonomy and Banks’ multicultural integration model, the researchers found that only 6 per cent of plans included diverse perspectives or representation of marginalised groups. The study warns that while AI tools can save teachers time, they risk reproducing formulaic, one-size-fits-all instruction. Teachers are encouraged to use AI for inspiration—not automation—and to embed context, creativity, and cultural depth into their own designs.

Key Points

  • 311 AI-generated civics lesson plans were analysed using Bloom’s taxonomy and Banks’ model.
  • 90 per cent of activities promoted only lower-order thinking skills such as memorisation and recall.
  • Only 6 per cent included multicultural or diverse perspectives.
  • AI tools produce generic, context-free lesson plans not tailored to real classrooms.
  • Educators should use AI as a support tool, prompting it with detailed, critical instructions.

Keywords

, , , , , , ,

URL

https://theconversation.com/ai-generated-lesson-plans-fall-short-on-inspiring-students-and-promoting-critical-thinking-265355

Summary generated by ChatGPT 5

GenAI News

Microsoft and OpenAI Invest Millions in AI Training for Teachers

GenAI:N3 Leave a comment
A vast, futuristic auditorium filled with hundreds of teachers, all seated and looking towards a large stage. Each teacher has a glowing tablet or laptop in front of them, displaying various digital interfaces and data. On the stage, a panel of six speakers is seated, addressing the audience. Behind them, a massive screen prominently displays the Microsoft and OpenAI logos side-by-side, with the text "AI EMPOWERMENT FOR EDUCATORS" and "MILLION DOLLAR INITIATIVE." The entire scene is bathed in a blue digital glow, and abstract data interfaces float around the screen and stage, emphasizing the technological theme. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.
In a landmark initiative, tech giants Microsoft and OpenAI are investing millions to provide comprehensive AI training for teachers. This program aims to equip educators with the skills and knowledge needed to integrate artificial intelligence effectively into classrooms, preparing the next generation for an AI-driven world. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.

Source

Associated Press

Summary

Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic are investing millions to fund large-scale AI training for U.S. teachers through partnerships with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the National Education Association (NEA). The initiative aims to equip educators with practical AI skills and ethical awareness to integrate technology effectively into classrooms. Microsoft has pledged $12.5 million over five years, while OpenAI is contributing $10 million in funding and technical support. The AFT will build an AI training hub in New York City and plans to train 400,000 teachers within five years. While the partnerships promise to expand AI literacy rapidly, experts and union leaders caution that schools must retain control over programme design and ensure training aligns with educational—not corporate—priorities.

Key Points

  • Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic are funding nationwide AI training for teachers.
  • The AFT will launch an AI training hub in New York City with plans for additional centres.
  • The initiative seeks to train 400,000 teachers over five years.
  • The NEA is developing AI “microcredential” courses for its 3 million members.
  • Unions insist that educators, not tech companies, will design and lead the programmes.
  • Experts warn against corporate influence and stress maintaining educational integrity.

Keywords

, , , , , , , , ,

URL

https://apnews.com/article/artificial-intelligence-teacher-union-microsoft-f7554b6550fb90519dd8129acac8e291

Summary generated by ChatGPT 5

GenAI News