Teachers at the Policy Frontier

This book chapter provides a comparative analysis of how AI in Education policies in Europe, Asia and Africa influence AI implementation in the classrooms, as well as the role of teachers in this implementation. Through case studies featuring Europe's ethics-driven and teacher-autonomous models, Asia's state-led innovation and rapid capacity building, and Africa's equity-focused yet resource-constrained strategies, the chapter reveals regional differences in policy intent, governance, and classroom realities. Despite the variations, similarities include the necessity of ethical guidance, and the importance of agency and sustained professional development for teachers in order to achieve meaningful and equitable AI integration in classrooms. The chapter concludes with implications for teacher education. The chapter highlights that systemic investments in teacher capacity, context-sensitive strategies, and collaborative partnerships are essential for ensuring inclusive and ethical AI integration in classrooms.