Belgium’s educational system is undergoing a revolutionary transformation as artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are being integrated into classrooms across its multicultural schools. The initiative, spearheaded by Microsoft AI-powered tools, aims to enhance learning experiences and bridge technological gaps in diverse educational settings.
The implementation targets both French and Dutch-speaking communities, making Belgium a frontrunner in educational innovation. Through free training programs, the initiative addresses critical labor and gender disparities in the digital workforce while promoting inclusive education across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
Students at institutions like De Wereldreiziger or the World Traveler School in Antwerp are already experiencing the benefits of AI integration. Tools such as Microsoft Reading Progress and Microsoft Immersive Reader are being utilized, enabling students to see and hear where they had difficulties, and practice to improve. Both tools operate on the Teams platform.
Microsoft’s Immersive Reader is revolutionizing classroom learning by offering a variety of innovative features tailored to diverse student needs. With this tool, students can read text in their native language and then switch to Dutch, allowing for seamless bilingual learning.
A standout feature is its ability to translate spoken language in real time. This means students can effectively receive instant subtitles of a teacher’s instructions in their preferred language, fostering better understanding in multilingual classrooms.
Additionally, Immersive Reader includes specialized tools to support dyslexic students by adjusting text spacing, font styles, and providing audio narration, ensuring accessibility for those with learning differences.
These capabilities make Immersive Reader an invaluable asset in creating inclusive and adaptable learning environments, bridging linguistic and educational gaps while supporting diverse learning needs.
Charlie Todts, a teacher and coordinator at the De Wereldreiziger school in Antwerp spoke on the use of the Microsoft AI-powered tools, stating “I know that when I teach without laptops or these new apps, it’s really difficult to reach 20 kids each on his level,” she said. “I can’t do it. I only have two hands, and with these tools, I can reach more kids.”
The Reading Progress tool captures a video of the student as they read aloud, using AI to analyze the exercise in real time. The tool evaluates key aspects such as reading speed, errors, and pronunciation. Once the analysis is complete, it provides detailed feedback to the student, highlighting areas where they faced difficulties.
This feedback allows students to visually and audibly review their performance, gaining insights into specific challenges. By identifying these areas, students can focus their practice to improve fluency and accuracy, making the learning experience both personalized and engaging. Teachers can also track progress and adjust lessons to suit individual needs.
The Microsoft AI School, in collaboration with BeCode and other partners, has launched Belgium’s first dedicated AI education center. The facility aims to train between 350 and 500 individuals annually, directly addressing the growing demand for AI expertise in the workforce. This initiative responds to the European Commission’s projection of needing 20 million ICT specialists by 2030.
Teachers are adapting to these new AI tools. The focus remains on maintaining a balance between technological assistance and fundamental skill development, ensuring students receive comprehensive education that prepares them for future challenges.
The impact of this integration extends beyond immediate educational benefits, contributing to broader societal goals of digital inclusion and development. By providing accessible AI education and emphasizing diversity, Belgium is establishing a model for other nations to follow in educational innovation.
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