Cottesmore School in southern England has welcomed a new "headteacher" to its ranks, but this one comes with a twist. Meet Abigail Bailey, a non-human headteacher, serving as an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot. Abigail's primary mission is to assist the school's human headmaster, Tom Rogerson, in various administrative and advisory roles.
The prestigious private boarding school in West Sussex partnered with an AI developer to create Abigail, who is designed to lend her expertise and insights to Mr. Rogerson. Rather than leading assemblies, handing out detentions, or assigning homework, Abigail's focus lies in supporting her human counterpart in managing the school's many responsibilities.
The AI chatbot is expected to guide on issues such as supporting teachers and staff members and devising strategies to aid students with additional needs. This innovative step towards utilizing AI in educational leadership represents an evolving approach to school management.
Speaking to The Telegraph newspaper, Mr. Rogerson expressed his thoughts on this unique collaboration, stating, "Sometimes having someone or something there to help you is a very calming influence." He reassured that human staff members would still be sought out for their expertise, emphasizing the importance of human connection. "Being a school leader, a headmaster, is a very lonely job. Of course, we have headteacher's groups...but just having somebody or something on tap that can help you in this lonely place is very reassuring. It's nice to think that someone who is unbelievably well-trained is there to help you make decisions."
How Will the AI Headmaster Operate?
Abigail Bailey operates similarly to the AI chatbot ChatGPT. Users input questions, and the AI responds using information gathered from various sources, often found online. The school made waves earlier this year when it became the first in the country to advertise a job opening for a "head of AI."
In addition to the AI headmaster, pupils at Cottesmore School, ranging from four to thirteen years old, have also been equipped with individual AI chatbots to enhance their learning experiences. Mr. Rogerson views these forays into AI as a glimpse into the future but clarifies that there are no current plans to replace human teachers or face-to-face education with artificial intelligence.
The introduction of AI into the school setting raises intriguing questions about the potential role of AI in education. Would you embrace an AI teacher or a chatbot to assist with your academic work? Have you already had experience with AI in your school? Share your thoughts in the comments below. This innovative approach to education is sure to spark discussions on the future of AI in schools.
Play audio
No comments