Chatbots, fake friends and relationships education

The impact of AI chatbots on relationships is one one of the most significant risks facing children and young people right now, and this is recognised in the new statutory RSHE guidance.

80% of young people use chatbots, and almost a third of those believe that these machines can ‘feel’ things and be their friend.

But what happens when we mistake these systems for people?

And what are the risks to real human relationships, emotional wellbeing and children's safety?

Having launched our brand new ‘Understanding AI: Rights, safety and wellbeing’ lesson materials and on-demand CPD course at the end of last half-term, we’re continuing our explorations into these questions by sharing a recording of our CEO Jono Baggaley’s highly topical keynote: Playing with dolls: chatbots, fake friends and relationships education.

Jono unpacks the risks and considerations every teacher should be aware of when it comes to this technology, and makes the case for an urgent response in our PSHE classrooms.

Jono delivered this keynote earlier this year at our Spring Online Conference, and we’re delighted to make it more widely available as part of our ongoing focus on this area.