4 Safeguarding Insights from APEN’s 2023 Conference”

Over the past week, I attended the
APEN 2023 conference. Today, I am eager to share the invaluable insights I
gathered at the conference, themed “Future Fusion: Artificial Intelligence
in Learning and Innovation.” This conference was a convergence of
educators, technology experts, and safeguarding professionals, all united in
their pursuit of understanding AI’s role in reshaping the landscape of
education. While, it would be almost impossible to summarise my experience in
one blogpost, I will try to share my key takeaways as a safeguarding officer.

A Conference is not complete without a picture with the conference banner.

My attention was first brought to the
Paramount Significance of Data Privacy. Data privacy emerged as a recurring
concern amidst the enthusiasm surrounding AI advancements. The Panel Debate themed
“Artificial Intelligence: To Be or Not To Be” presented a valid
concern on data privacy. From a safeguarding perspective, the secure handling
of students’ personal information is non-negotiable. Protecting this data is a
fundamental aspect of preserving the child’s safety and well-being. Hence, it
is imperative to ensure that students and parents are fully informed about the
data collection processes and its utilisation.

Furthermore, the conference
underscored the imperative need to prioritise the teaching of Digital
Literacy and Critical Thinking skills. These competencies prepare students
for an AI-driven future, equipping them with the ability to navigate the
digital realm safely and make well-informed, ethical decisions online.

Bright-eyed and eager to learn and network on Thursday morning.

Thirdly, Safeguarding Officers are
essentially the Guardians of Student Well-being, as they play a pivotal role in
ensuring that AI technologies in education uphold the safety and welfare of
students. Our proficiency in risk assessment, policy development, compliance,
and ethical advocacy is instrumental. Thus, by educating stakeholders,
monitoring AI usage, and proactively detecting early warning signs, we can play
an indispensable role in securing students’ educational environments.

I met Rhoda Odigboh, a Learning Strategist and Curriculum
Theorist.

Finally, I particularly like the use
of AI as an Early Warning System. In the realm of safeguarding, AI
serves as an invaluable tool for the early detection of concerning behaviours
like bullying or self-harm. By analysing digital interactions, AI can swiftly
identify patterns and language indicative of distress. This proactive approach
allows for timely intervention, offering vital support to at-risk students and
bolstering their safety and well-being.

Attending a close knit session with Yinka Ogunde

In all, I had a swell time at the APEN
conference, as it was a remarkable platform for exploring the fusion of AI with
learning and innovation, and a great place to meet like-minded professionals. We need to be reminded that as we embrace these technological advances, we must do so with an unwavering
commitment to safeguarding, ethical application, and a profound comprehension
of both AI’s potential and its limitations.

I invite you to share your thoughts
and inquiries on the impact of AI on safeguarding in the comments section
below. Stay tuned for further updates on safeguarding.