Australia plans digital detox and curriculum changes for schools

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 4 Nov, 22:45 · Archive

Australia is restricting artificial intelligence in classrooms and adding compulsory lessons on democracy and anti-Semitism.

Education Minister Jason Clare announced sweeping curriculum changes approved by state and federal education ministers on Monday. The overhaul includes a 'digital detox' for schools, restricting generative AI such as ChatGPT in primary schools and high school assessments, and making lessons on democracy, Jewish contribution to Australian society and financial literacy compulsory.

Clare told ABC News that excessive screen use in classrooms has 'gone too far'. 'We thought school was different - that screens would help. But more and more evidence tells us that kids who have spent a lot of time on screens at school do worse,' he said. He described teachers now standing at the back of classrooms to monitor what appears on children's screens.

Not all states have embraced the restrictions. Some have already limited screen time, others are trialling it, and some have asked for more evidence. A task force will examine how jurisdictions can regulate classroom screen time and report back three times in 2027. Year 5 NAPLAN will switch to pen and paper, and the Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority is considering a plea from New South Wales to remove screens from the national testing scheme entirely.

How it is being reported

• AI 'detox', anti-Semitism lessons in education overhaulRestricted access to AI, compulsory civics lessons and anti-Semitism education will form the basis of a nationwide curriculum overhaul.Perth Now · 4 Nov, 22:08
• AI 'detox', anti-Semitism lessons in education overhaulRestricted access to AI, compulsory civics lessons and anti-Semitism education will form the basis of a nationwide curriculum overhaul.The West Australian · 4 Nov, 22:08

In this story: Jason Clare · Australia · New South Wales · Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority

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