Manitoba school division limiting homework due to rise in AI use

Learn about about DSFM's new homework policy, trends in learning due to AI and what parents should know.

One Manitoba school division has asked its teachers to limit homework wherever possible in response to the use of artificial intelligence.

The Division scolaire franco-manitobaine’s (DSFM) new guidelines on “donner des devoirs,” or giving homework, began on Nov. 10.

The policy recommends students receive homework in moderation and instead promotes nightly reading.

DSFM’s assistant superintendent Luc Brémault said though AI has great potential in the realm of education, it affects how homework gets done.

“We thought it was a great time to look at how we do homework at the DSFM, how we assign homework and be mindful of some elements,” he said in an interview with Your Morning Winnipeg on Thursday.

With this policy, Brémault said teachers are being asked to be careful of the types of homework they give to ensure AI isn’t being used as a tool for copying.

“That’s why we ask teachers to be mindful of the homework,” he said.

“Limiting it to reading, practicing their reading, practicing their reading comprehension, practicing reading skills so that they can learn and enjoy reading.”

Brémault added that the new protocol isn’t only a response to AI; it also has to do with the fact that students have several other activities they do after school.

“Kids today have access to a lot of activities that also contribute a lot to their development,” he added.

With files from CTV’s Rachel Lagacé