When people talk about AI in education, they often think only of Generative AI (GenAI) — tools that create lesson plans, images, videos, or quizzes.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. AI has several other “families” of applications, and schools can benefit from each of them. Let’s explore the main categories and their uses in the classroom.

1. Generative AI (Creation & Synthesis)
– Teachers create tailored lesson plans, worksheets, and quizzes in minutes.
– Students bring stories, poems, or artwork to life with AI.
– Multimedia lessons: videos, simulations, and interactive diagrams made easily.

2. Predictive & Analytical AI
– Early warning systems spot pupils who may need extra support.
– Personalised learning paths adapt resources to each learner.
– Schools forecast exam performance, resource needs, or even attendance patterns.

3. Conversational & Interaction AI
– AI tutors available 24/7 for homework help.
– Voice-based practice for foreign language learners.
– Chatbots answering parent queries or scheduling meetings.

4. Decision & Optimisation AI
– Automated timetables that balance classes and teachers.
– Smarter allocation of labs, devices, and resources.
– Curriculum planning that responds to pupil performance.

5. Perception AI (Understanding the World)
– Computer vision grades handwritten work or diagrams.
– Cameras improve campus safety and detect issues early.
– Real-time captions and object recognition support pupils with disabilities.

6. Autonomous Systems
– Classroom robots teach coding and engineering.
– Delivery robots carry books or lab materials around school.
– Smart buildings adjust lighting and heating based on activity.

7. Assistive & Augmentation AI
– Tools tailored for pupils with dyslexia, ADHD, or autism.
– Live translation breaks language barriers.
– Teacher co-pilots help with marking and admin.

In short: AI in schools isn’t just about creating content. It’s about predicting, supporting, optimising, and empowering — giving teachers more time, students more opportunity, and schools more efficiency.