Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva has voiced support for draft amendments to a 2015 ordinance on general education, put forth by the Education Ministry. These amendments aim to formally integrate artificial intelligence and digital literacy into the curriculum from the third through twelfth grades. In a statement addressed to caretaker Education Minister Sergey Ignatov, Delcheva stated that the proposed changes represent a timely and necessary measure to modernize Bulgarian education amid rapid technological advancements across all sectors of society.
Delcheva noted that artificial intelligence holds potential as a valuable assistant in learning, supporting student research and creative endeavors, and modernizing the educational environment through improved feedback between teachers and students. However, she stressed that technology should complement, rather than replace, cognitive processes, asserting that AI must function as a guide to knowledge, not a substitute. Furthermore, the Ombudsman highlighted the necessity for students to develop critical thinking, fact-checking skills, the ability to identify disinformation and algorithmic bias, and ethical responsibility when using AI.
She also outlined the evolving role of the teacher, suggesting they must function as mentors and navigators within the digital sphere, not solely as sources of knowledge. Delcheva pointed out several risks associated with the reform, including the potential widening of the digital divide between regions, the requirement for comprehensive teacher training, the protection of student data, and concerns regarding plagiarism and over-reliance on technology. In her assessment, the draft largely aligns with UNESCO guidelines and EU regulations concerning AI in education.
Delcheva recommended that the Ministry of Education develop a catalog of certified AI tools for schools and implement additional rules to ensure child protection, transparency, and human oversight in learning. She also emphasized the need for mental health programs in schools to support adaptation to the digital environment.
Topics: #education #proposed #delcheva
