After a successful intake of students for the first Graduate Certificate in AI Innovation, in 2024, academics from the University of New England have now curated a workshop aimed at demystifying AI and providing examples of ways it can be used as a tool in education to free-up staff to focus on students.
The first, in what is hoped will be a series of outreach events, was held at Calrossy Anglican School on Monday where two UNE academics spent the day with almost 100 staff members who learned about AI technology, how it can be used in schools and how It is being used by students.
The workshops were led by UNE Associate Professor, Aaron Driver from UNE’s LabNext70 (UNE’s applied AI lab) and Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Dr Kyle Mulrooney, who said educators needed practical strategies to manage and work with AI.
"We're facing maybe the most transformative technology in human history, and it's arriving in the span of just a few years,” Associate Professor Driver said.
“Everyone's response seems to be 'wow, that's a big deal' followed by... nothing concrete. Education is ground zero for this disruption, which is exactly why we're working with Calrossy. Schools can't afford to delay with AI—they need practical strategies now.
"“AI is not here to replace teachers but to empower them,” Dr Mulrooney said.
When used thoughtfully and with intention, it can enhance learning, support the individual needs of students, and free up educators to focus on what they do best—teaching and mentoring.”
“Education is about preparing students for the future, and AI is a part of that future. The challenge is not whether to use AI in schools, but how to do so in a way that is ethical and responsible, and in ways that genuinely enhance student learning.”
Calrossy Anglican School Principal, David Smith, said the UNE initiative was helping his staff navigate the concept of AI, how it is being used by teachers, students and schools.
“AI is forcing us to relook at the way we are doing education K – 12. It gives teachers and leaders an opportunity to reflect on teaching and learning,” Mr Smith said.
“There are some great opportunities to use AI. Some of us are early adopters and leading the way – making mistakes and facing the pitfalls. I realise that no-one has all the answers.
“What I am appreciating is being given opportunity to be adventurous and explore with teachers and students what possibilities there are for learning. There are great possibilities in supporting differentiation and personalisation in the classroom.”
The new UNE pilot program in schools followed a successful intensive school weekend for the second intake of the University’s Graduate Certificate in AI Innovation, held in Tamworth on March 8-9.
UNE Director Of Place-Based Education and Research, Melanie Fillios, said the program is an example of the University’s commitment to tailored learning opportunities for the Tamworth regional community, ahead of the anticipated opening of UNE’s new Tamworth Campus in 2027.
“UNE is on a mission to be an enabler of change and growth in our region. This begins through partnerships like the one we have with Calrossy where we are helping to build capacity through education and awareness. This is what we do best.”
