Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva has voiced support for proposed amendments to a 2015 ordinance on general education, which aim to formally integrate artificial intelligence and digital literacy into the curriculum for students in grades three through twelve. In a statement addressed to the caretaker Education Minister, Sergey Ignatov, Delcheva stated that these proposed changes represent a timely and necessary effort to modernize Bulgarian education amidst rapid technological advancements across all sectors of society. According to Delcheva, artificial intelligence can serve as a valuable assistant in learning, supporting student research and creative endeavors, and improving feedback mechanisms between teachers and students.
However, she stressed that technology should function as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, cognitive processes. The Ombudsman emphasized that effective integration of AI in education requires students to develop critical thinking, fact-checking abilities, the capacity to identify disinformation and algorithmic bias, and an understanding of ethical responsibility when using AI. She also noted the evolving role of the teacher, who must act as both a knowledge source and a mentor within the digital sphere.
Delcheva outlined several risks associated with implementing the reform, including the potential widening of the digital divide between regions and schools, the necessity for high-quality teacher training, the protection of student data, and the risks of plagiarism and over-reliance on technology. The Ombudsman noted that the draft largely aligns with UNESCO guidelines on generative AI in education and European regulations concerning AI. She recommended that the Ministry of Education establish a catalog of certified, safe AI tools for schools and implement additional regulations ensuring child protection, transparency, and human oversight.
Furthermore, Delcheva stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to mental health in schools, including programs for social and emotional learning.
Topics: #education #proposed #delcheva
