Embracing AI in Education: A Human-Centred Approach
Our Junior and Senior School academic staff recently had the privilege of participating in an inspiring and thought-provoking professional development session lead by renowned AI expert, Professor Anné Verhoef, Director of the North-West University Artificial Intelligence Hub.
The training provided valuable insights into the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence and its growing role in education.
The session created a rich space for discussion around both the benefits and the potential pitfalls of AI. Staff engaged critically with questions such as how AI can enhance learning, support differentiated instruction, and improve efficiency, while also recognising the risks associated with over-reliance, bias, data privacy, and misuse. These conversations reinforced the importance of intentional, informed, and reflective AI use in schools.
A key focus of the training was human-centred AI, placing people, values, and relationships at the heart of technology use. AI was explored as a tool to empower educators, deepen learning experiences, and free up time for what matters most: meaningful human connection, creativity, and critical thinking.
Staff had the opportunity to engage in discussions on practical ways to implement AI responsibly and ethically in teaching and learning. This included exploring risk-mitigation strategies, establishing ethical boundaries, and modelling responsible AI use for students. Preparing learners for a world shaped by AI requires more than technical skills; it demands strong moral reasoning, adaptability, and a clear understanding of how to engage with technology thoughtfully.
The message was clear: AI is the future, and education must evolve alongside it. This means being willing to experiment, seek ongoing training, and continuously rethink and reimagine our teaching practices. By embracing AI in an ethical and responsible way, we can empower both educators and students to thrive in an increasingly complex digital world.
As we move forward, our commitment remains firm:
Be human with AI. Use it wisely. Teach it ethically.
