Gov't testing AI tools to assist teachers

 

The government through the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information is testing artificial intelligence (AI) tools in schools to assist teachers with marking and administrative tasks. 

 

Portfolio Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon says there are also plans to launch the Jamaica Learning Assist, an AI-powered tool designed to personalise learning according to students' individual needs. 

 

She noted that the technology is not a replacement for teachers, but rather a support tool that enhances their ability to deliver lessons more effectively.

 

"We have AI technology that we're testing in schools now to have the AI mark the papers so that the teachers can spend more time doing what is really important, which is interacting with our students. So this is freeing up valuable time so teachers can focus on what's the important things. We're also preparing to launch the Jamaica Learning Assistant, an AI-powered tool that tailors learning to students' individual styles. So whether they prefer stories, humour, quizzes, or dialogue, AI will help us meet learners where they are and lift them higher, but this is just a support to the teachers," the minister outlined. 

 

Dr. Morris Dixon was addressing day one of the Jamaica Teachers' Association Education Conference 2025, being held at Ocean Coral Spring in Trelawny. 

 

In the meantime, Jamaica will open its first state-of-the-art AI lab later this year. The lab is to provide a space for students and teachers to develop technology solutions for schools. 

 

Dr. Morris Dixon called for collaboration with the JTA to integrate educators into the broader AI strategy under which the government intends to further distribute more than 15,000 laptops and tablets to students along with 600 smart boards for schools. 

 

Additionally, approximately 25,000 vouchers have been issued to teachers to subsidise the purchase of personal laptops.