Generative artificial intelligence in schools

This page has information about generative artificial intelligence (AI) in schools for students and parents.

What is it

Generative AI allows computers and systems to create new content that mimics what humans can produce.

This can include:

• text
• images
• videos
• software code
• music.

Generative AI learns from large amounts of data to recognise patterns and produce the best response to a given human request.

When a prompt is provided, the generative AI tool provides an output based on the prompt such as a sentence, picture or model.

Generative AI policy

The Department of Education and Training allows the use of generative AI in schools guided by Northern Territory Government and department policy.

Schools may develop their own processes to help the school community meet these policy expectations.

Students should follow school processes and guidance when using generative AI tools.

For more information read the Generative AI policy.

Benefits and limitations

Generative AI tools can support teachers and students in their thinking and positively affect learning.

However, generative AI tools can also:

• show bias and use stereotypes
• provide incorrect information, such as leaving out important details or creating false information
• provide information that is not always original, instead providing the most likely response.

How can it be used in schools and homes

Generative AI is used differently across year levels. Read the table to find common uses.

Information for students

You should consider these things when using generative AI tools:

• age restrictions - check the age restrictions of AI tools before deciding to use the AI
• privacy - don't share personal, sensitive or identifiable information as data can be stored or used in unintended ways
• security - use only safe, reliable platforms and keep software up-to-date
• plagiarism and copyright - follow your school processes and advice on using generative AI content including:
  • applying copyright rules
  • acknowledging the use of AI generated content
• reliability - AI-generated content can be inaccurate or biased. Check your AI-generated content to make sure its correct and suitable.
• misuse - there can be consequences if you use generative AI tools to create harmful or inappropriate content. Its important to use these tools in a responsible and ethical way.

Plagiarism and assessment integrity

When you use generative AI for schoolwork, it must be appropriately acknowledged.

This may include naming the generative AI tools used and listing prompts given to the tools.

You should discuss with your teacher to find out the best way to do this.

If you use content created by generative AI and submit it as your own, it is considered plagiarism, just like copying from a book or website without giving credit.

At school, you will learn:

• what plagiarism is
• why it is important to avoid it
• how it can affect your grades.

When using generative AI to support assessment tasks, you should keep drafts or notes to show your work process.

Teachers may check for plagiarism, so it is best to keep transcripts of generative AI prompts and responses to support your work if needed.

Australian framework for generative AI in schools

Education ministers across Australia have made addressing the risks and opportunities of generative AI in education a priority.

The Australian Framework for Generative AI in Schools provides national guidance for the responsible and ethical use of these technologies to benefit students, schools, and society.

More information

For more information read the following:

• If you're a student completing the NT Certificate of Education read the Guidelines for using AI in South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) assessments.
• If you're a parent, read the Parents' ultimate guide to generative AI on the Common sense media's website.
• Australian Government's eSafety Commissioner.