Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva has publicly supported draft amendments to a 2015 ordinance concerning general education, which were submitted by the Education Ministry. The amendments aim to formally integrate artificial intelligence and digital literacy into the curriculum for students from the third through twelfth grades. In a statement addressed to the caretaker Education Minister, Sergey Ignatov, Delcheva stated that the proposed changes represent a timely and necessary modernization effort for Bulgarian education amid rapid technological advancements across all sectors of society.
According to Delcheva, artificial intelligence holds potential as an assistant in the learning process, aiding students in research and creative tasks, and serving as a tool to enhance the educational environment and teacher-student feedback. However, she cautioned that technology should support, rather than replace, cognitive development. She emphasized that successful integration requires AI to function as a guide to knowledge, not a substitute.
Furthermore, Delcheva stressed the necessity for students to develop critical thinking, fact-checking abilities, and the capacity to identify disinformation and algorithmic bias, alongside ethical responsibility in AI use. She noted the evolving role of the teacher, who must act as both a knowledge source and a mentor within the digital sphere. The Ombudsman highlighted several risks associated with implementing the reform, including the potential widening of the digital divide between regions, the need for comprehensive teacher training, student data protection, and mitigating risks like plagiarism and over-reliance on technology.
Delcheva recommended that the Ministry consider establishing a registry of certified AI tools for schools and implementing rules ensuring child protection and human oversight. She also urged a comprehensive approach to mental health in schools.
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