ADAPT’s ‘AI Literacy’ Programme Scales Up to Reach Hundreds More Teachers Across Ireland

Building on its successful pilot phase, the Research Ireland ADAPT Centre for AI-Driven Digital Content Technology has announced the national expansion of its AI Literacy in the Classroom training initiative, supported by Google.

The expansion will help boost the AI literacy of an additional 500 post-primary teachers and student teachers across Ireland, equipping them to guide students in the ethical, informed, and responsible use of AI. This national rollout will also make AI literacy training resources available in the Irish language.

AI Literacy in the Classroom addresses a critical skills gap identified by the Oide teacher development unit and European education leaders, who, along with teacher unions, have called for urgent upskilling in AI literacy across education systems.

Launched in October 2024, the programme blends in-person and online professional development with half-day workshops at regional education centres, complemented by a self-led online course. All content has been co-designed with teachers and education leaders in AI ethics, media literacy, and digital learning to ensure accessibility, curriculum relevance, and pedagogical value.

Impact to Date

To date, over 340 teachers have participated, with 96% reporting improved ability to explain AI concepts and ethics, 92% feeling more confident discussing AI with students, and 97% recommending the training to other teachers. The 90-minute online course has been widely praised for its clarity, interactivity, and engagement.

ADAPT will now scale the initiative nationally, upskilling an additional 500 teachers and 6,000 students.

Features of this new phase include introducing Irish-language resources and a student-focused course, expanding regional continuing professional development workshops, and launching in-school pilots targeting DEIS schools. It will also deepen engagement with Initial Teacher Education institutions, supporting student teachers through tailored workshops and resources.

Key Phase II Activities

• Regional Workshops – The first workshop will take place in Dublin on Saturday, 4th October, hosted by Google, with over 100 participants already registered. Additional workshops are planned in Limerick and Waterford, ensuring a strong regional reach. Information on these workshops can be found on the project website.
• Online Course in Irish – Launching on Monday, 6th October, this milestone will make the programme’s free online course, which is currently available in English, also available in Irish.
• Teacher Training (Student Teachers at Partner Institutions) – Training sessions are confirmed with UCD, with further sessions being discussed with other higher education institutions. These sessions will support student teachers in embedding AI literacy from the ground up.
• New Student-Focused Course – Developed in consultation with a teacher advisory panel and AI experts, these resources are designed for teachers to bring directly into the classroom. They will support students in exploring AI in a safe, ethical, and responsible way, while complementing their teacher training sessions.

Laura Grehan, Head of Education, Engagement and Societal Impact at ADAPT Centre, who leads the programme, said:

“ADAPT is delighted to see AI Literacy in the Classroom expanding nationwide with the support of Google and regional partners. This programme not only builds critical awareness of AI but also supports teachers in fostering ethical and informed AI use among their students. We are especially proud to see materials being developed in the Irish language and to offer tailored training for student teachers, ensuring that AI literacy becomes a core part of teacher training and inclusive education across Ireland.”

Anne Rooney, Head of Government Affairs & Public Policy at Google Ireland, noted:

“At Google, we want to equip Ireland’s young people and educators with the skills needed to understand and navigate this transformative technology. Our continued support for ADAPT underlines our commitment to making AI literacy accessible across Ireland, ensuring that students are prepared to shape an AI-enabled future that benefits all.”

AI Literacy in the Classroom’ is part of ADAPT’s broader mission to promote responsible AI use and to empower educators and students in navigating the digital age. With the expansion of the initiative, ADAPT aims to equip the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Find out more and register for upcoming workshops or access the online course at

https://ai-literacy-in-the-classroom.adaptcentre.ie/