The implications for creative education during the rise of AI

There can be no debate that in recent months there has been a steep incline in the use of AI tools across most sectors, including Education, as we all try to learn and navigate the practical uses along with the limitations that are posed by compliance.

AI is going to change all that we do, in the same way that the internet has revolutionised our lives but, like the internet, there will be wide implications that we have not yet thought of. One that did occur to me was the issue related to human vs AI creativity.

Industries have already started to use generative AI to create content and, whilst this was always going to be a primary use, what happens when we apply this to the creation of song, literature, music and film? Could this make talented songwriters, composers, writers and musicians redundant?

If so, what does this mean for education?

With school budgets already stretched and the ongoing recruitment crisis, school leaders are making difficult decisions about provision. Perhaps the rise of AI means that subjects like music; creative writing; media studies; and art are no longer an essential part of the curriculum. Is there a trade off between the opportunities offered to young people vs the convenience of AI?

We know that creative subjects develop key skills that are needed in the workplace. How will young people continue to be able to scaffold their learning of these skills if the curriculum begins to narrow.

The other side of this is that we are still some way off answering some of the very complex questions related to legislating AI and how we secure the safe and ethical use of the different technologies associated.

There have already been well publicised cases in the US which have led to debate. One example is a Nashville based Brother-Sister Duo, who used AI to create lyrics to a song which was accompanied by chords and rhythm composed by the them. This sparked speculation over who owns the copywrites, given that the song is a mixture of AI generated lyrics and human-made artistic expression. The US Copyright Office said that the lyrics cannot receive any copyright protection and only human creativity is subject to these laws.

Amazon is also looking to use AI generated self-published books and will require similar scrutiny with regard to the law and regulation.

There is something magical about listening to music that is authentic. Whether that be in a stadium concert or in a small parish hall, where children are learning their first instruments. For me, it gives me the feelings of hope, nostalgia and an excitement for the future. I am not sure I would feel the same about a song that I knew had been written by AI and without having had the performer or artists personal connection to the music.

There is without a doubt a skill in understanding how to create art with AI but perhaps the way forward is a hybrid approach. Teaching skills will continue to be an important part of education for the foreseeable future and, even with the rise of AI, creativity will continue to form an essential mechanism for preparing learners for their futures.

Governing AI will need to become an integral part of school operations. Although I am fascinated (albeit somewhat clueless) about the opportunities that are presented by AI, I do know that finding ways to protect our values, while we develop our understanding, will be the most important thing that we can do in education.

Christina Reffold, Director of Governance & Compliance 

July 2024