Across multiple sessions at BETT 2026, Microsoft showcased a comprehensive update to its education platform, which encompasses Copilot, Microsoft 365, Teams for Education, Learning Accelerators, and Minecraft Education. Rather than presenting AI as a separate entity, Microsoft emphasized its seamless integration into existing tools utilized by educators and students. The focus was on enhancing lesson preparation, differentiation, assessment, feedback, and fostering AI literacy.
Copilot for teaching moves from concept to classroom workflow
A central theme throughout the BETT sessions was the evolution of Copilot into a practical teaching assistant, now embedded within Microsoft 365 applications. Microsoft introduced a new Teach module, which is now available, consolidating lesson planning, resource creation, differentiation, and assessment tools into a single interface. This allows educators to generate lesson plans aligned with standards from over 35 countries, adjust reading levels, modify tone or difficulty, and incorporate real-world examples—all without leaving their workflow.
- Lesson plan creation with curriculum and standards alignment
- Rubric generation linked to specific learning objectives
- Quiz creation through Microsoft Forms
- Automatic differentiation of instructions by grade or ability
- Reading level modification while preserving key subject terminology
Microsoft announced that Minecraft Education lesson plan creation using Copilot is set to enter preview in February 2026, with unit plan creation to follow in Spring 2026.
Study and Learn agent targets independent and adaptive learning
For students, Microsoft unveiled a Study and Learn agent, crafted to support revision, practice, and conceptual understanding through interactive learning activities. This agent can transform existing content into tailored learning experiences. Unlike generic AI chat tools, Microsoft positioned the Study and Learn agent as grounded in learning science principles, emphasizing reflection, retrieval practice, and adaptive pacing. The agent is scheduled for preview in January 2026, with expanded study guide functionality anticipated later in the year.
AI foundations and literacy through Minecraft Education
A significant portion of Microsoft’s BETT program concentrated on AI literacy, with Minecraft Education serving as a primary vehicle for introducing AI concepts in age-appropriate manners. The AI Foundations certification session with Minecraft Education outlined a structured approach to AI literacy, aligning with external frameworks such as UNESCO, OECD, and TeachAI. The program aims to help students:
- Recognize where AI is already present in everyday tools
- Understand how algorithms function and identify potential biases
- Learn when and how to use AI responsibly
- Develop critical evaluation skills rather than engage in passive consumption
Classroom-ready environments like Fantastic Fairgrounds, CyberSafe AI: Dig Deeper, and Reed Smart: AI Detective were highlighted as platforms for students to explore ethical dilemmas, data usage, and decision-making through gameplay. Research shared during the session revealed that six in ten teachers report a lack of AI training, while 74 percent of students believe AI will significantly influence their future careers, underscoring the necessity for structured AI education rather than sporadic exposure.
Learning Accelerators and LMS integration expand at scale
Microsoft also utilized BETT to elaborate on the expansion of Learning Accelerators beyond Teams, introducing a new Microsoft 365 LTI that integrates Copilot, assignments, feedback tools, and learning activities directly into learning management systems. Key updates include:
- Full LMS integration for Microsoft 365 apps and Copilot
- AI-assisted assignment and rubric creation without requiring Teams
- Reading Coach access for independent student practice
- Reflect check-ins and progress insights for educators
The company confirmed that Copilot will be embedded within LMS environments in Spring 2026, enabling educators to create content directly within courses without the need to switch platforms.
Governance, responsible AI, and controlled use in assignments
Throughout various sessions, Microsoft addressed concerns surrounding AI misuse, academic integrity, and governance. New assignment-level controls will empower educators to define expected AI usage, including:
- Clear guidance on when AI is permitted
- Pre-approved Copilot prompts
- Visibility for students on acceptable support versus prohibited use
This approach aims to transition from blanket bans to structured, transparent AI use that aligns with learning objectives, with previews scheduled for February 2026.
