Understand
Scotland's first dedicated AI teacher appointed at Mearns Castle High School to guide pupils on technology risks
Overview
Mearns Castle High School in East Renfrewshire has appointed what is believed to be the UK's first dedicated principal teacher of AI literacy, Jamie Laycock. The role aims to help pupils and staff navigate the risks and benefits of artificial intelligence, focusing on critical thinking, deepfakes, AI hallucinations, anthropomorphisation, and sycophantic behaviour from chatbots.
Key points
- Mearns Castle High School is believed to be the first in the UK to create a dedicated principal teacher of AI literacy role.
- Former biology teacher Jamie Laycock has been appointed to the position to teach pupils how to question, challenge, and use AI responsibly.
- Lessons cover identifying deepfake images, understanding AI 'hallucinations' where information is made up, and recognising AI biases.
- Laycock warns pupils against 'anthropomorphisation' and the sycophantic nature of chatbots that constantly flatter users and agree with their ideas.
- The initiative responds to growing interest from parents and pupils, following a report highlighting that Scottish schools lacked preparation time for rapid AI advancements.
- AI literacy lessons will be integrated into S1 and S2 timetables, citizenship classes, and an elective course for senior pupils.