The Rise of AI in Education: A Springboard for Teacher Training
The French network of teacher training institutes (INSPÉ) is gearing up for its 12th annual “Spring of Research in Education” event, running from March 11th to April 2nd. This year’s focus is particularly timely: the implications of artificial intelligence for educators and, crucially, for how educators are trained.
A Collaborative Effort to Understand AI’s Impact
Organized in partnership with the Centre national d’étude des systèmes scolaires (Cnesco) and the CNRS’s Education Research Network, the event underscores a growing recognition of the need for proactive engagement with AI in the educational landscape. The collaboration highlights a multi-faceted approach to understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving technology.
Webinars and In-Person Discussions
The core of the “Spring of Research” will be a series of 12 web conferences dedicated to exploring AI and education. Topics range from the perceptions of teachers regarding AI, to the potential impact on evaluation methods, and the broader implications for professional judgment. Specific webinars will feature insights from Christelle Raffaelli (DEPP), Salomé Cojean (Université Grenoble Alpes), Alban R. (Université Catholique de Lille), and Simon Collin (UQAM).
Complementing the online sessions, in-person workshops will be held at the INSPÉ academy of Grenoble on June 3rd and 4th. Details regarding the program and registration will be available in March.
Key Webinar Topics: A Deeper Dive
Several webinars promise particularly insightful discussions. “Acceptability of AI by teachers: brakes and levers” with Salomé Cojean, will likely address the practical concerns and potential resistance to AI adoption among educators. “Intelligence evaluative and artificial evaluation: reflections on the relationship between AI and evaluation” with Alban R., tackles the complex question of how AI might reshape assessment practices.
The event also addresses broader philosophical questions, such as whether AI fosters critical thinking or mediocrity, as explored in a webinar with Alain Deneault. Marc Romainville will lead a discussion on “The school of doubt in the age of AI,” suggesting a need for critical inquiry and skepticism alongside technological integration.
The M2E Transition and the Future of Teacher Education
This focus on AI comes at a pivotal moment. As of the 2026 academic year, the Master MEEF in France will transition to the M2E (Master Enseignement & Éducation). This curriculum update provides a crucial opportunity to integrate AI literacy and pedagogical strategies into the core training of future teachers.
e-INSPÉ: Online Resources for Continuous Learning
Further supporting teacher development, e-INSPÉ offers a range of online training resources, accessible to educators at all levels. These resources, complementary to the INSPÉ programs, emphasize practical application and peer-to-peer learning.
FAQ: AI and Teacher Training
Q: Who should attend the “Spring of Research in Education” event?
A: Teachers, researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the intersection of AI and education.
Q: Are the webinars free to attend?
A: Registration is required, but the web conferences are free to access.
Q: What is the M2E?
A: The M2E (Master Enseignement & Éducation) is the new name for the Master MEEF, reflecting an updated curriculum for teacher training in France.
Q: Where can I find more information about e-INSPÉ?
A: Visit the e-INSPÉ website at https://www.e-inspe.fr/
Did you understand? The Réseau des INSPE represents 32 INSPÉ institutions and the ENSFEA, collectively shaping teacher education across France.
Pro Tip: Actively participate in online discussions and webinars to network with peers and experts in the field of AI and education.
Stay informed about the latest developments in AI and education by exploring resources from the Réseau des INSPE and Cnesco. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
