Artificial intelligence solution
to support the prevention of school dropout
Information for parents
Artificial Intelligence Solution to support
school dropout prevention
The Ministry of Education has implemented an innovative tool based on artificial intelligence (AI) to prevent school dropout. This tool aims to identify students at risk of dropping out and the factors impacting this risk, as well as to propose interventions to promote their educational success.
The tool was designed and deployed with the support of recognized expert organizations in artificial intelligence and education to ensure ethical use and compliance with good educational practices.
Understanding Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence allows a computer to mimic human intelligence and behaviors such as learning, thinking, and problem-solving. It uses existing data and algorithms to suggest accurate and effective solutions.
An algorithm is simply a sequence of instructions, like a cooking recipe, to be followed in a specific order to accomplish a task.
It’s important to emphasize that AI is created by humans, who design its algorithms and adapt it to specific needs, such as helping to reduce the risk of dropping out of school.
How the tool works
The AI Solution to Support School Dropout Prevention aims to predict the risks and factors of a student’s dropout and present the findings and recommendations to the people who will work with this student.
- Network data
The tool uses existing data from the school board in the assessment of students and associated risks. - Custom AI Solution
Each school service center has its own adapted version of the tool, designed for its context, whose forecasts are adjusted to its reality using six different algorithms. - Diagnosis and prediction
The tool detects dropout risks using advanced analyses and generates forecasts at a frequency adapted to the needs of the organization. - Systematic human validation
Before each publication of results, validation is carried out by experts.
An ally in the service of academic success
Benefits for students, teachers and parents
- Early detection : easier identification of students with potential to drop out.
- Targeted interventions : personalized recommendations for each situation, each identified student.
- Enhanced support : adapted educational resources.
- Collaboration : exchanges between teachers, parents and students for better monitoring.
A tool, not an automated decision
In any case, this artificial intelligence solution is just another tool for school boards in their fight against school dropout. Final decisions and actions will always be made by qualified people, not computers.
Data used by the tool
The tool relies on existing data already compiled and administered by school boards, which are part of the education system’s current data. Since no new information is being collected, parents do not have to give their consent to the school board to use it. However, parents can still request access to their child’s personal information.
Data is processed in a secure environment that ensures the confidentiality and protection of students’ personal information. Access to the information is strictly limited to authorized school board personnel who need it for the performance of their duties.
The number of people with access to this tool is very limited within a SB, and users must undergo specific training to ensure optimal and secure use.
Data Types
- Personal
Gender, age, place of birth, learning or adaptation difficulty code and disability. - Family
Language spoken at home and parents’ education. - School
Results and repeating. - Environmental
School attended and deprivation index. - Behavioral
Absence, lateness and behavioral disturbance.
As a side note about the subject of this guide, all images used on this page were generated by generative artificial intelligence.
A commitment to academic success
This tool is part of a comprehensive approach aimed at reducing the school dropout rate and ensuring greater educational inclusion. By combining artificial intelligence and human expertise, the Ministry of Education is implementing a proactive solution to support students on their path to success.
Information published by the MEQ
Document published by the Quebec Ministry of Education in the fall of 2024 on the Artificial Intelligence Solution to support the prevention of school dropouts (in french).