‘Enormous challenge’ posed by AI generated content

There’s been a call for the introduction of a ‘Critical Thinking’ module into the school curriculum at secondary school level.

The suggestion was made at the February meeting of the Cavan Monaghan Education and Training Board by Joe McGrath who told those gathered that AI generated content is proving an “enormous challenge” for young people.

CMETB Director of Schools Paddy Flood informed the board members that a Digital Media Literacy course is already being developed and added that there is a “long, long distance to go on the issue nationally”. He said the content of the course was “around” challenges facing young people online today.

Mr McGrath suggested that the CMETB “develop a course ourselves”, which would be rolled out to students in first, second and third year.

Cllr Áine Smith (FF) said that the issue is “something brought up constantly at council meetings”.

As a parent and a school teacher, she said “a lot of parents are putting the onus on schools” to deal with the issue.

However, she pointed out that it is “parents giving phones to children”.

She highlighted the necessity of ensuring that “parents are aware” of what’s happening on their children’s phones, pointing out that “once you consent”, you are giving access to personal information.

“It is worrying what is happening on social media at the moment,” she said.