Using AI to Support Professional Learning in Initial Teacher Education

Abstract Book of the 10th International Conference on New Trends in Teaching and Education

Year: 2026

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Using AI to Support Professional Learning in Initial Teacher Education

Martin Hagan, Dr Geraldine Parks, Dr Thomas Rogan

ABSTRACT:

The integration of Artificial Intelligence into education offers significant opportunities and challenges for teachers and learners alike. Whilst existing research has explored the use of AI to support teaching generally, limited attention has been paid to how pre-service teachers can engage with AI to develop their professional learning and classroom practice. This study addresses this gap by investigating how student teachers perceive AI as a professional learning tool and how they use AI during placement to enhance their knowledge and understanding and teaching competence. Employing a mixed methods sequential design, the study comprised five phases: (1) a teaching input on AI literacy provided to a complete cohort of third year primary student teachers; (2) a pre-placement questionnaire exploring perceptions of AI and intended use on placement; (3) reflective documentation on AI usage during placement; (4) a post-placement questionnaire on actual usage and perceived effectiveness; and (5) focus groups exploring emergent themes. Level 1 participants completed all phases whilst level 2 participants only completed the pre- and post-placement questionnaires. This presentation reports findings from phases two and three, offering emergent empirical insights into pre-service teachers’ attitudes towards operationalising AI in practice, the perceived benefits and challenges of doing so, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI integration. By examining how student teachers navigate AI integration during authentic teaching experiences, this study offers valuable perspectives on developing AI literacy within initial teacher education to support professional learning in an increasingly technology-enhanced educational landscape.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence in Education; AI Literacy; Ethical AI Use; Teacher Education; Technology Integration