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Understanding AI: Navigating the Future Together

Understanding AI: Navigating the Future Together featured image

Written by Mr Dan Copeman, Director of Digital Strategy 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has quietly woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives. From asking Alexa to play a favourite song to getting personalised recommendations on Netflix or following Google Maps’ fastest route home, AI is everywhere. As this technology continues to advance, its influence is extending into education. At the Loughborough Schools Foundation (LSF), we see AI as a tool with immense potential to enrich learning when used wisely and responsibly. We also recognise the importance of guiding pupils to understand both the opportunities and the challenges that AI presents. 

What is AI? 

In simplest terms, AI refers to computer systems capable of tasks that usually require human intelligence, such as recognising language, identifying patterns, or making decisions. While AI is not new, breakthroughs in computational power and access to vast data have propelled its development. Generative AI, for instance, can create entirely new content, such as text, images, or even music, by learning from extensive data sets. 

How are we using AI at LSF? 

At LSF, we value personalised learning and are committed to leveraging the best of AI to benefit our pupils’ education; imagine every individual student having access to tailored lessons that address their unique strengths, interests, and areas for growth. Whilst we’re starting to explore AI’s role in improving educational efficiency, we do so with caution. As a member of a national AI panel, we are deeply engaged in ongoing discussions about the responsible use of AI in schools. We closely monitor the latest educational research to identify where AI can genuinely enhance learning outcomes. So far, our efforts have included extensive staff training, developing innovative curriculum resources, and encouraging thoughtful conversations with pupils about AI. For us, AI’s classroom applications must always enrich education —never bypassing the learning that is so important. 

The Challenges of AI 

From  a pupils’ perspective, AI might feel like a shortcut—something that can quickly generate an essay or solve a tricky problem. However, we emphasise that AI is a tool, not a substitute for effort and understanding. Here are some key challenges we are addressing: 

  • Bias in AI: AI reflects the data it learns from. If that data is biased or incomplete, the AI’s outputs can also be skewed. We are teaching pupils to question results critically, ensuring fairness and accuracy. 
  • Overreliance: Learning comes from struggle and discovery. Using AI to bypass this process can hinder deeper understanding. We are helping pupils strike a balance by using AI thoughtfully. 
  • Academic integrity: Just as calculators must be used responsibly in math, AI requires clear boundaries. We are guiding pupils  to identify acceptable uses, such as brainstorming ideas, while understanding what constitutes academic dishonesty. 
  • Ethical use:  Pupils learn to document AI usage, from naming the tool to explaining how it was used—an essential skill for the future. 

Preparing pupils for the future 

As AI reshapes industries, the skills that set humans apart—critical thinking, creativity, empathy, and collaboration—become more valuable. These qualities align closely with the soft skills we prioritise at LSF. We are equipping pupils with the mindset to thrive in a world where technology and humanity must work together. 

Ethical AI and safeguarding 

Above all, our priority is ensuring pupil safety and  wellbeing. We’re continually educating our staff, reviewing new research, and embedding lessons about AI ethics into the curriculum. By doing so, we hope to create an atmosphere where AI supports genuine human connections and enhances, rather than overshadows, the personal relationships at the heart of learning. 

What can parents do? 

Parents play a vital role in shaping their child’s relationship with AI. Here’s how you can help: 

  1. Foster balance: Encourage your child to use AI as a co-pilot rather than an autopilot. Ask them about their thoughts before they consult AI tools. 
  2. Discuss ethics: Talk about both the benefits and risks of AI. Highlight the importance of fairness, accuracy, and questioning results. 
  3. Stay informed: AI is an evolving field. Partner with us to understand its educational applications and implications. 
  4. Collaborate with us: Your insights and concerns help us create a responsible, balanced approach to AI in education. 

AI is here to stay, but thankfully it won’t replace teachers—or parents.