AI:
Goals, Challenges + Opportunities
Our Goals
Maximise economic benefit
AI is being presented as a solution to all problems. However we need to sort out the kind of problems today’s AI is good at solving and use them.
AI and Catholic ethical teaching
In addition to the moral and responsible development use and deployment of AI we are called to examine the Church’s position on AI in its various forms.
Set the language of AI
While AI, as a technology in its current form, has been around since the 1950's the current AI hype has been around since October 2022. The vocabulary describing AI is not yet set. Catholic education has a role in setting this.
AI is being presented as a solution to all problems. However we need to sort out the kind of problems today’s AI is good at solving and use them.
Regulation compliance and accountability
At the time of writing, there is no common vocabulary for AI and AI deployment let alone regulation, compliance or accountability measures. This must change, and will impact our AI strategy.
Prepare for AI based cyber threats
Current AI models act best a "force multipliers” for various data tasks. This incudes cyber attacks. We (CEnet and the members) need to be ready to deal with AI controlled and directed cyber risks.
Minimise safety risk
AI has the potential to greatly assist in child protection and early detection of incidents. How do we ensure that this occurs fairly and accurately?
Key Challenges
AI guiding principles
Build and enforce a set of AI guiding principles that are morally sound and reflect the strategy of the organisation.
Be smart enough to see a good opportunity and brave enough to jump on it
Beginnings are such delicate times, we need to seek out, evaluate and be able to deploy new AI technology quickly and safely.
Make sure we have the right people in the room
CEnet is going to need the right mix of decision makers in the room to create the AI Strategy, Vision and Objectives - TWICE - once for CEnet and once for the members.
Establish a common vocabulary
We need to establish and publish a common vocabulary that can be used in RFQs, Contracts and product evaluations. We also need to know that vendors know what they are selling.
Key Opportunities
Equitable access to AI
Personalised learning
Intelligent tutoring systems
Administrative efficiencies
Data-driven insights
Enhanced accessibility
Adaptive assessment
Resource recommendations
Professional development for Educators
Virtual classrooms and learning environments
Behavioural and emotional support