Portugal launches public consultation on AI use in schools

Portugal has launched a 30-day public consultation regarding the responsible use of artificial intelligence in education. The proposal, developed by the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation and EduQA, aims to establish guidelines for pre-school, primary, and secondary education rather than imposing mandatory laws.

The guidelines suggest that AI should only be used when it adds pedagogical value and does not compromise intellectual autonomy or data privacy. For pre-school students, the direct or autonomous use of AI tools is not recommended. In primary and secondary education, students may assume progressive responsibility, though those under 13 would require parental authorization and should not be required to create personal accounts.

Education Minister Fernando Alexandre emphasized that the non-binding nature of these guidelines allows for flexibility as technology evolves. The final version of the document is expected to be implemented by January 4, 2027.

In a separate development in Brazil, the Centro de Profissionalização e Educação Técnica (CPET) has implemented an AI-driven tool called 'Estudo Interativo' to personalize distance learning and combat student dropout rates by adapting content to individual student needs.