As Safer Internet Day 2026 centres on the theme “Smart tech, safe choices – exploring the safe and responsible use of AI,” schools and higher-education institutions are being asked to look beyond innovation alone and consider how technology is introduced, managed, and experienced by learners.
AI is now firmly embedded in education. From personalised learning pathways to content creation and classroom support tools, AI’s influence continues to grow. However, the real conversation is no longer about adoption, it is about responsibility. How schools make technology decisions today will directly shape student safety, trust, and learning outcomes tomorrow.
“AI is a fantastic tool if utilised properly and is ultimately going to be part of our world forever. My hope is that schools and workplaces use this to their advantage without taking away the human side of collaboration and engagement with each other.”
Smart Tech Starts With Intentional Design
Smart technology in education is not defined by how advanced a tool is, but by how thoughtfully it is implemented. Responsible AI use begins with systems designed with education in mind—platforms that prioritise privacy, transparency, and educator control over consumer-grade convenience.
Schools are custodians of sensitive student data, and AI-driven tools must be assessed through that lens. Where is data stored? Who has access? How are outputs generated? These questions are no longer technical footnotes; they are fundamental to safeguarding students and maintaining trust within learning communities.
At Technology Core, we see this shift first-hand. Schools are increasingly seeking technology ecosystems that integrate securely with their existing infrastructure, offer clear governance controls, and avoid unnecessary data exposure—especially when AI capabilities are involved.
Safe Choices Mean Empowered Educators
A common misconception around AI in education is that it replaces educators. In reality, responsible AI should amplify teaching—not automate it away. When used correctly, AI can reduce administrative load, surface insights, and enable more responsive learning environments.
However, this only happens when educators are equipped with the right tools and training. Technology decisions must be made with teacher workflows in mind, ensuring staff retain visibility and control over how AI is used in the classroom. Professional learning is just as critical as the technology itself.
Technology Core works closely with schools to support this balance—helping educators adopt interactive and AI-enabled tools in ways that enhance teaching practice while remaining transparent, secure, and manageable.
Building AI Literacy Alongside Digital Literacy
Smart tech choices also extend into curriculum and pedagogy. As students interact with AI more frequently, they need guidance to understand its limitations, biases, and appropriate use. Teaching AI literacy—how systems generate information, why outputs should be questioned, and when human judgement matters—has become essential across both K–12 and higher education.
This approach supports safer use while reinforcing critical thinking skills, ensuring students are not passive consumers of AI-generated content but informed, thoughtful users.
“AI is already part of our daily lives, which will only continue to grow, so it is important to use it responsibly for future progress. This is why AI discussion is part of my HDI training, as it is everyone’s responsibility (from manufacturers, teachers, students and parents) to use AI safely and effectively to get the best results.”
Responsibility Is an Ongoing Commitment
“Smart tech, safe choices” is not a one-time decision. At Technology Core, we believe responsible technology is not just about what tools can do—but about what they enable, protect, and empower in the classroom. It is an ongoing commitment that requires collaboration between school leaders, educators, technology partners, students, and families. It means regularly reviewing tools, policies, and practices to ensure they continue to align with educational values and student wellbeing.
