From iPads to AI Tutors: A shared journey for students and parents
At Thomas More College, technology integration isn't just a buzzword—it's a daily reality, thanks to educators like Claire, the Senior Primary ICT/Digital Skills Educator. With her remarkable ability to weave ICT seamlessly into the curriculum and coach IT skills, Claire has helped transform the learning landscape for the students at Thomas More Senior Primary. But the innovation doesn't stop there. Thomas More is also pioneering new ways to involve parents in the educational journey, all while showcasing the responsible use of AI through Mindjoy.
We recently caught up with Claire and today we'll share an update on her journey with Mindjoy.
Inviting Parents into the Digital Classroom Experience 📱
Understanding that parents play a crucial role in the educational ecosystem, Thomas More Senior Primary regularly organises sessions where parents can experience first-hand how technology enhances their children's learning. These sessions are meticulously designed to align with the current curriculum, ensuring they are both educational and engaging. Parents are invited to join their children in hands-on activities using iPads, giving them insight into the modern educational tools their children use.
The sessions serve a dual purpose: they showcase the practical use of the devices, justifying their expense, and they strengthen the connection between home and school by involving parents directly in the learning process.
In a standout session with Grade 5 pupils, the objective was simple yet effective: to explore the provinces of South Africa using Mindjoy.
During the session, parents witnessed how Mindjoy facilitates learning. They saw their children interact with AI tutors, engage in problem-solving, and apply creative thinking—all within a controlled and educational environment. This transparency built trust and helped parents appreciate the value of integrating technology like Mindjoy into the curriculum.
Personalised Learning through AI by Connecting Curriculum and Icons 🏉
Claire understands that personal connection enhances learning. By using Mindjoy's capability to create AI tutors modelled after real-life figures, she adds a layer of relevance and excitement to the curriculum. In one memorable session with Grade 7 pupils, Claire shared how she introduced an AI tutor embodying Sylvia Earle, the renowned marine biologist. The tutor engaged students in discussions about ocean conservation, making the subject matter come alive.
Similarly, with the Grade 5 pupils during the parent-student session, Claire crafted a learning experience centred around Siya Kolisi, South Africa's rugby captain and tourism ambassador. After completing an online puzzle of South Africa's provinces accessed via a QR code, students and their parents watched a video featuring Siya. The AI tutor, personifying Siya, then invited them to create a souvenir representing a province of their choice. This interactive task, guided by the AI tutor's suggestions, allowed participants to explore cultural and geographical aspects creatively — talk about making geography fun and engaging!
By integrating figures whom the students admire, Claire made the educational content more relatable. Students felt as if they were interacting with their heroes, which significantly boosted their motivation and interest in the subject.
Demonstrating Safe and Responsible AI Use in Education 🔒
Safety in AI is a legitimate concern for many parents and educators, particularly regarding appropriate educational use. Claire addressed this by configuring her Mindjoy tutors to maintain focus on the topic, preventing any off-topic or inappropriate interactions. Unlike unrestricted AI platforms, which may not offer the same level of control, Mindjoy provides a secure environment where content is tailored to the students' educational needs.
This controlled environment reassured parents about Thomas More College's responsible use of AI. They were impressed not only by the innovative use of technology but also by how Mindjoy engages students at an appropriate level. Parents appreciated seeing their children use AI in a way that was both educational and safe.
Claire's Perspective on Mindjoy 🤓
When asked to use one word to describe Mindjoy's personality, Claire enthusiastically replied, "A genius! Mindjoy can do anything, and we can make it do anything. It's never going to replace the emotional side of a teacher, but in terms of knowledge, it's really genius!"
Her sentiment captures the essence of Mindjoy as an educational tool—limitless in potential yet designed to complement, not replace, the human touch in teaching.
Shaping Tomorrow's Education Today with Mindjoy 👨💻
Claire's innovative use of Mindjoy at Thomas More Senior Primary serves as an excellent model for educators everywhere. By involving parents directly in AI-driven learning experiences, she has successfully showcased the value of digital tools in the classroom. Her approach enhances student engagement and builds trust and collaboration between the school and families.
Through their commitment to safe and responsible AI use, Thomas More Senior Primary addresses the concerns that often accompany technological advancements in education and their work demonstrates that when used thoughtfully, AI can be a catalyst for enriched learning experiences.
With Mindjoy as a trusted innovation partner, Thomas More Senior Primary is not just teaching digital skills—they are shaping the future of education. Claire's work exemplifies how technology, when used responsibly, can enrich learning and bring communities together, preparing a new generation of learners equipped for the challenges of the digital age.