London School Launches UK’s First Teacherless AI Classroom

Last Updated on September 2, 2024 by SPN Editor

David Game College in London is set to revolutionize education by introducing the UK’s first teacherless AI classroom taught entirely by artificial intelligence. This innovative approach aims to provide precise, personalized learning experiences, though it has sparked debate about the future of education.

Starting in September, 20 GCSE students will embark on this pioneering journey. They will utilize a combination of AI platforms and virtual reality headsets to tailor their learning experiences. The teacherless AI classroom systems will assess each student’s strengths and weaknesses, adjusting lesson plans accordingly. Topics that students excel in will be scheduled for revision later in the term, while areas needing improvement will be addressed immediately.

John Dalton, co-principal of David Game College, believes AI offers a level of precision and continuous evaluation that human teachers cannot match. “There are many excellent teachers out there, but we’re all fallible,” Dalton stated. “AI systems can pinpoint why a child is not learning more effectively.”

Despite the high annual fee of £27,000, students like Joseph and Michael are optimistic about the benefits. Joseph noted, “A teacher doesn’t really know your flaws because he has so many students. The teacherless AI classroom will figure out what your flaws are and help you improve.”

To ensure students are not left unsupported, three “learning coaches” will be present in the classroom. These coaches will monitor behavior, provide assistance, and teach subjects that AI currently struggles with, such as art and sex education. Alexander Vansittart, a former Latin teacher, has joined the college as a learning coach, driven by his belief in the transformative potential of this technology.

However, the concept of teacherless AI classroom education is not without its critics. Chris McGovern, a retired head teacher and former advisor to the policy unit at 10 Downing Street, argues that while AI has a role in education, relying solely on it could lead to a “soulless, bleak future.” He emphasizes the importance of interpersonal skills and the human interaction between pupils and teachers.

The government has also announced a new project to help teachers use AI more effectively, providing a bank of anonymized lesson plans and curriculums to train educational AI models. Stephen Morgan, minister for early education, highlighted the potential of AI to assist teachers, stating, “Artificial Intelligence, when made safe and reliable, represents an exciting opportunity to give our schools’ leaders and teachers a helping hand with classroom life.”

At David Game College which launched UK’s first teacherless AI classroom taught by artificial intelligence instead of human teachers, AI is not just a helping hand; it’s taking the reins.