Page 161 - Izobraževanje v dobi generativne umetne inteligence

Generative AI and the Croatian Educational System

als within the educational system. Developed by experts from the “Partners
in Learning” Association, the manual provides an introduction to fundamen-
tal AI concepts, their applications in education, and the ethical challenges
associated with their integration into the teaching process. It includes expla-
nations, examples, reflection questions, and activity suggestions for teachers
to use with students.
The manual is divided into three main sections. The theoretical part in-
troduces AI concepts and encourages educators to consider the ethical di-
lemmas related to its use in education. This is followed by activity proposals
aimed at students aged 13 and older, promoting interactive, creative, and col-
laborative learning experiences while raising awareness of the potential risks
and challenges associated with AI. The final section offers resources and strat-
egies for teachers to integrate AI responsibly into their pedagogical practices,
ensuring a safe and effective approach to teaching with these technologies.
This manual serves as a foundational resource for education profession-
als looking to deepen their understanding of AI, explore its possibilities and
challenges, and apply it in a pedagogically appropriate way that prioritises
students’ best interests.
Even without systematic implementation of generative AI (GEN-AI) tools
in elementary and secondary schools in Croatia, some teachers and admin-
istrative staff have independently adopted tools like ChatGPT to facilitate
administrative tasks and enhance the teaching process. For example, the sec-
retary of XV. gimnazija in Zagreb uses ChatGPT to streamline administrative
workflows, demonstrating the potential of such tools to improve efficiency
in everyday school operations. This ad-hoc usage highlights the growing
recognition of GAI’s practical applications in educational settings outside of
teaching.
The research Artificial Intelligence and Critical Thinking in High Schools
(Čižmar, 2024), conducted as part of the project Digital Literacy in the Age
of AI by ODRAZ and Telecentar with support from The European Citizen Ac-
tion Service, offers valuable insights into the perception and literacy of ar-
tificial intelligence (AI) in Croatia. The study revealed that 42% of Croatians
have experimented with or currently use AI tools, yet only 19.3% of respond-
ents demonstrate high AI literacy, while 26.3% exhibit a low understanding
of AI concepts. Public sentiment towards AI reflects a mix of apprehension
and optimism, with 60% associating AI with uncertainty or concern and 30%
linking it to utility and excitement. Additionally, 49% of respondents fear job
displacement within the next 5 to 10 years due to AI, and 72% believe AI will
negatively impact interpersonal relationships.

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