In our rapidly evolving educational landscape, keeping the classroom motivated, engaged, and enthusiastic is more challenging than ever. Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant concept, it’s becoming part of our everyday lives, shaping how we work, communicate, and learn. AI presents a spectrum of possibilities and challenges and it is emerging as a transformative force, influencing both professional and personal spheres, making it fundamental for educators to navigate this technological shift with a comprehensive understanding of its implications and applications. This concept was fundamental during the new edition of the course ‘’ChatGpt and AI for teachers: Artificial Intelligence in schools and education’’ that took place in Palermo from 11/05/2025 - 17/05/2025. The participants came from all across Europe, including Alice Davis from School Street and Thomas Court Bawn Family Resources Centre CLG in Ireland, Marie-Christine Ecormier and Sébastien Frey from Lycée professionnel Albert Ramassamy in France, Julia Feix and Michael Braun from Insel-Realschule Pforzheim in Germany, Felix Hienzsch and Oliver Mermagen from Clara-Schumann-Gymansium in Germany, Ramona Hermer and André Pinzer from Sigmund-Wann-Realschule Wunsiedel in Germany, Jana Skočir from Posoški razvojni center in Slovenia, Nuno Carvalho from Agrupamento de Escolas de Albufeira in Portugal, Rui Oliveira from Agrupamento de Escolas de Moura in Portugal, Kathrin Pletschnig from Klusemannstrasse in Austria and Luis Enrique García Sánchez from IES La Laboral de La Laguna in Spain. To begin with, the group explored the concept of Artificial Intelligence, tracing its evolution, impact, and current state. They reviewed significant concepts in AI, from the inception of basic machine learning algorithms to the advent of advanced neural networks and deep learning models. The conversation also covered AI’s implications across various sectors, particularly education. On the following day, the course focused on ChatGPT and the broader use of prompting techniques in AI tools. Participants explored the importance of crafting clear and effective prompts, learning key elements such as specificity, context, and tone to improve the quality of AI-generated responses. Through practical exercises and group challenges, they created and refined prompts, gaining hands-on experience in how to communicate with AI effectively. In addition to text-based outputs, participants were introduced to the use of prompting for image generation, using tools that transform written descriptions into visual content. This allowed them to explore how prompts can produce images. As part of this activity, participants were also encouraged to critically examine the results for potential biases, for example, how AI tools may reproduce stereotypes based on the way a prompt is phrased. This component emphasized not only creativity and precision in prompting, but also critical thinking and ethical awareness, helping educators recognize the limitations and social implications of AI-generated visuals in educational contexts. Another important topic addressed during the course was the ethical use of AI in education. Discussions focused on key concerns such as algorithmic bias, data privacy, and the importance of transparent and inclusive policies when integrating AI into schools. Developing a solid understanding of these ethical considerations is essential to ensure AI tools are used fairly, responsibly, and in ways that benefit all learners. The course also explored how AI is being integrated into ICT tools, transforming the way teachers create and deliver content. Participants were introduced to a variety of AI-powered digital resources, including tools for generating instructional materials, collaborative boards, and interactive quizzes. A key area of focus was the use of AI for formative assessment and feedback. Participants learned how AI can support teachers by providing instant, personalized feedback to students and generating insights into individual learning needs. They experimented with tools that assist in creating rubrics, feedback templates, exit tickets, and other resources to track student progress and adapt instruction accordingly. Throughout the training week, participants shared their experiences and engaged with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds. This collaborative environment not only enriched their understanding of AI in education but also sparked meaningful conversations about how to adapt these tools effectively in their own classrooms. ![]() Participants left the training with new friendships, a renewed sense of inspiration, and a collection of fresh ideas and perspectives to take back to their schools; ready to explore how AI can support more inclusive, engaging, and innovative teaching practices. Discover more about this course here. |