
Source
Irish Examiner
Summary
A new report by ESRI (Economic and Social Research Institute) highlights a significant policy gap: Irish secondary schools largely lack up-to-date acceptable use policies (AUPs) that address AI. Among 51 large schools surveyed, only six had current policies, and none included detailed guidance on AI’s use in teaching or learning. The Department of Education says it’s finalising AI guidance to address risks, opportunities, and responsible use. The absence of clear, central policy leaves individual schools and teachers making ad hoc decisions.
Key Points
- Only 6 of 51 schools had updated acceptable use policies that could construe AI governance.
- AI-specific guidelines are “notably absent” in existing school policies.
- Schools are left to decide individually how (or whether) to integrate AI in learning without shared framework.
- The Department of Education expects to issue formal guidance imminently, supported by resources via the AI Hub and Oide TiE.
- Policymaking lag is highlighted as a disconnect between fast technology change and slow institutional response.
Keywords
URL
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41715942.html
Summary generated by ChatGPT 5