Italy Uses AI-Assisted Instruction to Improve Students’ IT Skills

Italy’s Digital Skills Gap Sparks AI Experiment

The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, is testing artificial intelligence in schools to address the country’s digital skills gap. Italy trails many EU countries in fundamental digital skills, according to Eurostat data. Only Latvia, Poland, Bulgaria, and Romania rank lower.

AI Tools Rolled Out in Select Classrooms

Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara announced that AI-assisted software will be tested this week in 15 classes across four regions. The trial began as schools reopened across Italy. If the experiment proves successful, officials plan to expand the program nationwide.

How AI Will Help Students and Teachers

AI tools will act as virtual assistants on classroom computers and tablets. According to Valditara, these assistants will simplify learning for students. Additionally, they will help teachers design more personalized education methods tailored to each student’s needs.

Limited Details About the Program

Despite the announcement, details remain scarce. The government did not reveal which schools will participate or provide specifics about how the AI systems work. Valditara’s office declined to confirm further information.

Expert Views on the AI Trial

Francesca Bastagli, head of research at Fondazione Agnelli, called the trial “promising.” She told Reuters that the scheduled review this school year “will hopefully tell us what works and what is needed.” Bastagli emphasized the importance of making future AI rollouts inclusive and effective for all students.

AI Push Amid Cell Phone Ban

Italy’s move toward AI-assisted instruction coincides with a strict ban on cell phone use in classrooms, even for educational purposes. This contrast reflects ongoing debates about technology’s role in schools.

Challenges Facing Digital Education in Italy

Past efforts to digitize Italian schools faced difficulties. For example, more than half of the teaching staff are older, according to OECD data, which has complicated digital adoption. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed the country’s digital readiness challenges.

AI Focus at Italy-Hosted G7 Summit

Prime Minister Meloni has made artificial intelligence a key topic for the upcoming Italy-hosted G7 meeting. The G7 leaders pledged to “strengthen cooperation to harness the benefits and manage the risks of AI” in their closing communiqué, underscoring the importance of responsible AI development.

 Italy’s AI Education Experiment

Italy’s AI-assisted instruction trial aims to improve students’ IT skills and close the EU digital divide. With further evaluation, the government hopes to expand AI tools in classrooms. This initiative could modernize Italian education while supporting teachers and students in a digital age.

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