In 2025, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept—it is transforming education, particularly with the rise of generative AI tools.
According to Educause, 73% of teachers recognise AI’s potential to accelerate learning and enhance student engagement. However, ensuring responsible AI use is critical, as over-reliance on AI-driven search tools can impact academic integrity.
In today’s modern education landscape, HP is one organisation at the forefront of leveraging AI to empower educators and students, ensuring responsible and effective adoption in classrooms.
“HP sees AI as a transformative force that, when applied thoughtfully, can revolutionise teaching methodologies,” HP education ambassador Brett Salakas told The Educator.
“Rather than replacing educators, AI should act as a co-pilot [that is how Microsoft got its AI’s name], enhancing personalised learning experiences and reducing administrative burdens. By integrating AI responsibly, schools can foster critical thinking, digital literacy, and ethical AI usage – key competencies for the future of work.”
AI stepping in to ease teacher burnout
Meanwhile, many educators are feeling the strain of growing workloads, with high school teachers taking sick leave at the highest rate compared to other sectors, averaging 8%. A study by Engage Education revealed that 50% of teachers experience extreme stress and are considering changing professions, with heavy workloads being a primary cause.
Recognising this, HP’s AI Teacher Academy has been designed to empower educators, equipping them with the skills and confidence to integrate AI into their classrooms effectively.
“By leveraging AI as a resourceful teaching tool, educators can enhance student engagement while streamlining lesson planning and administrative tasks,” Salakas said.
“AI-powered tools can significantly reduce teachers’ cognitive load by automating repetitive grading, generating lesson plans, and offering real-time student feedback. This allows educators to dedicate more time to what truly matters—mentoring and inspiring students.”
Salakas said AI in the classroom has the potential to alleviate stress, reduce teacher burnout, and improve overall efficiency.
“When used strategically, AI doesn’t replace teachers; it amplifies their ability to connect with students, provide targeted interventions, and enhance learning outcomes.”
Leveling up learning with AI and Gamification
Salakas also noted how gamification and AI-driven learning are gaining traction in classrooms, saying highlighting that AI-driven learning personalises education, adapting to students’ preferred learning styles and needs.
“Gamification enhances this experience by visually tracking progress, making learning more engaging and motivating students to achieve better outcomes,” he said.
“Research indicates that AI-powered gamification fosters deeper learning retention and improves student performance, equipping students with essential skills for the future of work.”
Salakas said HP’s free EdX courses provide students with the opportunity to explore gamification, helping them develop career-ready skills.
“These courses also equip teachers with the knowledge and tools to integrate game-based learning into their classrooms, creating a more interactive and dynamic learning environment,” he said.
“By blending AI, game mechanics, and real-world problem-solving, students not only stay engaged but also develop critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability—traits highly valued in modern workplaces.”
Building confident digital classrooms
Recognising that closing the digital skills gap requires innovation and sustained efforts to identify new opportunities for students to both harness their existing digital skills and develop new ones, HP is continuing to drive digital education through initiatives like the Return to Learn campaign and EdX courses.
“HP’s education initiatives in Australian schools continue to create meaningful impact for both students and teachers,” Salakas said.
“Through free EdX courses and the HP Life program – which has engaged over 3.1 million global participants in eight languages – HP helps educators and learners adapt to the evolving digital landscape.”
Salakas said the Return to Learn campaign is further expanding this reach in Australia, providing teachers and students with flexible opportunities to develop essential skills in AI, gamification, and digital literacy—critical competencies for the future of work in Australia.
“For students looking to enter the esports industry, the HP Gaming Garage provides a unique pathway into this growing career field, offering training and insights into gaming, technology, and professional opportunities in the esports ecosystem,” he said.
“For educators, the HP AI Teacher Academy boosts teachers' superpowers—helping them do what they do best while equipping them with the knowledge to integrate AI into their practice effectively.”
Additionally, said Salakas, the Computer Basics for Teachers program supports those new to technology in education, ensuring all educators, regardless of experience, can confidently engage with digital tools in their classrooms.
“In Australia, HP’s programs have supported thousands of educators in developing AI and digital fluency, providing direct training sessions, resources, and industry insights,” he said.
“Our next step is to expand hands-on professional development opportunities and forge stronger partnerships with schools to embed AI literacy at all levels.”