ADAPT Centre’s AI Literacy in the Classroom initiative, launched in October 2024 and supported by Google, has entered its second phase, expanding its reach across Ireland. Designed to build AI literacy among post-primary educators, the programme equips teachers to guide students in the ethical and informed use of AI technologies.

Developed following collaborative discussion with Oide and shaped by a dedicated teacher advisory panel, the initiative blends in-person workshops with a self-led online course. Over 360 teachers have already participated, with 96% reporting an improved ability to explain AI concepts and 92% feeling more confident discussing AI with students. The training has indirectly reached more than 4,000 students to date.

Phase 2, launched in June 2025, is scaling up nationally to include an additional 500 educators and more than 6,000 students. New developments this year include the introduction of Irish-language resources, in-school pilots in DEIS and Irish-medium schools, and expanded cooperation with teacher education universities to support student teachers through tailored training and resources.

The initiative helps teachers explore topics such as algorithmic bias, misinformation, and digital ethics, the key issues in helping students become critical thinkers and responsible users of media and technology. The programme places strong emphasis on inclusive access, with a blended delivery model that ensures flexibility and national reach.

With growing momentum, strong cross-sector collaboration, and continued support from teachers themselves, AI Literacy in the Classroom is helping shape a digitally competent and critically engaged generation across Ireland’s schools.

Our workshop series continues with Google HQ hosting the first workshop of Phase II exploring AI literacy in the classroom.