In the context of our AI in Secondary Schools project, we have brought together six AI Teachers in Residence, who are set to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary work on the use of AI at their respective schools. Learn more about them and their interest in AI.
Louise Girvan is a secondary Music teacher in the Dumfries & Galloway region. She studied a Bachelor of Music with Honours degree at the University of Edinburgh before completing her Professional Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education at the University of Strathclyde. As a digital leader within Dumfries & Galloway and an active member of the Global Microsoft Educator community, Louise is committed to advancing digital literacy skills among learners and supporting other educators to use digital technology innovatively. She is particularly interested in the developments of AI in Education for both educators and learners, and how it can be used to enhance creativity.
Matthew Mackie is Principal Teacher of Computing at Perth High School where he has taught for 22 years since graduating teacher training at Edinburgh University in 2002. Matthew’s interest in Artificial Intelligence dates to when AI was a component part of the SQA Higher Computing qualifications and a time when Scotland felt slightly ahead of the AI curve in education. Matthew lives with his wife Emma and his sons John and Jacob. A keen cyclist, in 2017 he helped establish and now runs the Perth Chapter of Cycling Without Age, a volunteer service offering free trishaw bike rides for elderly passengers. He is interested in Scots language and translated the popular children’s book “The Tale o the Wee Mowdie”, nominated for Scots Bairns Book of the Year. He can also be found on the terraces at McDiarmid Park (home of St Johnstone FC), and at Hampden Park (home of Scotland National Team).
Adam Llewellyn is a Modern Studies and Politics teacher in Larbert High School. Adam has been in this role for years and has developed a passion for using technology to bridge the gaps in accessibility in learning and to support all young people in working towards their potential without barriers. As AI has emerged as the next big step in technology, Adam has been very keen in emerging himself in professional learning in order to take advantage of this technology in the classroom and give his pupils the best experience possible.
Kevin McPhee currently teaches at Gorgie Mills High School. With 20 years of experience in the cultural sector and inclusive education, he has a passion for creating dynamic, hands-on learning experiences. Kevin founded the The Schools of Engineering, Design, and Technology, a network of inclusive STEM clubs that connects ASN teachers and supports learners with complex needs through engaging, interest-based projects. Kevin is also delivering on the pilot Film and Screen curriculum in partnership with Screen Scotland, where young people are learning to create short films that are informed by their unique perspectives and life experiences. Recently Kevin has been recognised with the Prosper Teacher for STEM Innovation award.
Our AI Teacher in Residence from the Royal High School reckons that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming learning at their school, improving teacher productivity and enhancing the personalisation of learning for our young people. In their support for learning department, they are using AI tools to create differentiated resources for pupils of all abilities and literacy levels enabling pupils to spend more time in their zone of proximal development. These AI-driven resources personalise learning experiences, catering to each student’s pace and understanding, ensuring they can progress confidently. The Royal High School have a whole school focus of utilising AI to foster critical thinking skills and to improve productivity enabling staff to spend more time on providing pupils with meaningful feedback.
Ewen Glen is an RMPS teacher and Digital Lead at Craigroyston Community High School. In this role, he strives to support fellow educators in creating accessible and engaging learning experiences through the effective use of digital technologies. He is driven by a commitment to ensuring that his learners benefit from the opportunities made possible by AI and are well-prepared for the future world of work.