Foundational Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Basic Education

Foundational Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Basic Education

DepEd Order No. 003, series of 2026, titled "Foundational Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Basic Education," establishes the first comprehensive framework for the ethical and responsible use of AI within the Philippine basic education system.

The order focuses on integrating AI as a complementary, human-centered tool rather than a replacement for teachers. Below is a summary of its key provisions:

1. Core Objectives

* Enhance Learning: Use AI to improve student engagement and personalize learning experiences.
* Promote Integrity: Establish standards to prevent AI misuse while fostering academic honesty.
* Inclusive Education: Ensure that AI tools are accessible and safe for all learners, regardless of their background.
* Strengthen Governance: Streamline administrative processes and data-driven decision-making across all DepEd levels.

2. Three Pillars of the AI Framework

The order organizes AI integration into three interrelated areas:
* AI in Education: Focuses on using AI tools to support classroom instruction, automate assessments, and personalize learner pathways.
* Education on AI: Prioritizes developing AI literacy. This includes teaching students and teachers how AI works, its ethical implications, and how to use it critically.
* AI for Governance: Targets the use of AI to improve school operations, resource management, and educational policy-making.

3. Guiding Principles

DepEd mandates that all AI initiatives must follow these specific principles:

* Human-Centeredness: AI must support human agency and oversight; teachers remain the primary facilitators of learning.
* Pedagogical Appropriateness: AI tools must align with established teaching standards and the curriculum.
* Ethical and Responsible Use: Emphasis on data privacy, transparency, and avoiding algorithmic bias.
* Equity: Ensuring that the "digital divide" does not widen by providing equitable access to AI resources.

4. Implementation Scope
This framework serves as the overarching reference for all subsequent DepEd policies, programs, and partnerships related to AI. It applies to:

* Teaching and learning in the classroom.
* Teacher professional development and training.
* Education governance and operations at the central, regional, and division levels.

In summary, DepEd Order No. 003 s. 2026 marks a shift toward a "balanced approach" to technology—embracing innovation and creativity while strictly safeguarding critical thinking and ethical standards in the classroom.

DO 003, s. 2026 - Foundational Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Basic Education - DOWNLOAD