Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva has voiced support for draft amendments to a 2015 ordinance on general education, put forward by the Education Ministry. The amendments 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 characterized the proposed changes as a timely and necessary measure for modernizing Bulgarian education amidst rapid technological advancements across all sectors.
According to Delcheva, artificial intelligence holds potential as an assistant in learning, student research, and creative endeavors, while also serving to modernize the educational environment and improve feedback mechanisms between teachers and students. However, she stressed that technology should supplement, rather than replace, the cognitive process, emphasizing that AI should 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 detect disinformation and algorithmic bias, and ethical responsibility concerning AI use.
Delcheva also noted the evolving role of the teacher, who must function not only as an instructor but also as a mentor and guide within the digital landscape. While acknowledging the reform’s alignment with UNESCO guidelines and EU regulations concerning AI in education, Delcheva outlined several risks. These include the potential widening of the digital divide between regions, the need for comprehensive teacher training, safeguarding student data, mitigating plagiarism risks, and ensuring adequate technical infrastructure.
She recommended that the Ministry of Education establish a list of certified AI tools for schools and introduce stricter rules for child protection and human oversight. Additionally, she advocated for a holistic approach to mental health in schools.
Topics: #education #proposed #delcheva
