Skip to main content
After ChatGPT: will machines make teachers obsolete?
From marking to cheating, from saving time to cutting jobs, secondary school teacher and NEU rep ROBERT POOLE considers the role AI may play in education
chatchpt

NEW technology is always heralded by two contradictory, yet both valid, views. Firstly, it will replace us and lead to mass job losses and secondly, it will free us, allowing us to pursue more leisurely pursuits while robots complete arduous tasks.

The same debate is currently being fought in the sphere of education. The rising popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots such as ChatGTP has led to some denouncing AI and some heralding it as a labour-saving device.

The current Education Secretary Gillian Keegan told an international meeting of international education ministers — not teachers, she won’t talk to us — about her views on the role of AI in education.

Morning Star call for advertising
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
More from this author
CRUCIAL HISTORY: (Clockwise from left) A silent crowd follow
Features / 17 March 2025
17 March 2025
From colonialism to the Troubles, the story of England’s first colony is one of exploitation, resistance, and solidarity — and one we should fight to ensure is told, writes teacher ROBERT POOLE
CONSERVATIVE POSTER CHILD: School head Katharine Birbalsingh
Features / 10 March 2025
10 March 2025
As the government moves to rein in academy freedoms, former darling of conservative education reform Katharine Birbalsingh cries ‘Marxism.’ Education columnist ROBERT POOLE examines how academisation has failed our children while enriching executives and empowering ideologues at the expense of democratic accountability
NEU delegation
Features / 6 November 2024
6 November 2024
ROBERT POOLE reports back from his mission to Cuba delivering aid and learning from Cuban educators
Cuban kids
Features / 10 May 2024
10 May 2024
After an inspiring meeting in Bolton Socialist Club addressed by a visitor from the Cuban Ministry of Higher Education, teacher ROBERT POOLE reflects on what we can learn from the education system in Cuba