How do we make sure AI helps children learn rather than simply giving them the answers?
And what happens when a researcher exploring the future of AI in education works directly with a school already putting AI into practice?
In the third episode of “In Dialogue with Stakeholders”, a special series of Speaking of Research presented by Catherine McDonald, we bring researchers together with the people and organisations who can help shape their research and show how it can have impact in the real world.
Joining Catherine is SCDTP doctoral researcher Nick Huxley from the University of Brighton and former primary teacher, whose research explores how AI tutors can support children’s mathematical reasoning, and Deputy Headteacher Hollie Benfield from Knockhall Primary School in Kent, where AI is already being embedded across teaching and school life.
Together, Nick and Hollie bring research and classroom expertise into conversation, exploring how AI can be used safely and effectively in primary education. They discuss teacher training, safeguarding and teaching children about AI, alongside the potential for personalised learning and real-time feedback.
Their conversation also highlights why stakeholder involvement matters. Hollie’s experience of implementing AI in a real school environment raises important questions for Nick’s research, from how AI tutors should respond to children’s developmental needs to how technology can support learning without replacing teachers, peer interaction or hands-on experiences.
“In Dialogue with Stakeholders” captures these conversations to show how researchers and stakeholders can work together from the outset, bringing different expertise and perspectives to research and helping shape its potential for impact beyond academia.
You can read a transcript of the conversation here.
Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at southcoastdtp.ac.uk
This is a Research Podcasts production.
Credits:
Presenter and Producer: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts
Guests: Nick Huxley, University of Brighton; Hollie Benfield, Knockhall Primary School
Video and Audio Editor: Alex Canner, Research Podcasts
Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts
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