Educational technology is rapidly evolving, with artificial intelligence (AI) making its way into classrooms across the nation. The use of AI in education can be tricky, and it varies by state and district. Educators are increasingly incorporating AI tools into their teaching practices, with the annual Educator Confidence Report from HMH revealing a significant increase in the use of generative AI.
According to the report, 50 percent of surveyed educators are utilizing generative AI, and 72 percent of them plan to use it even more in the next school year. The majority of educators believe that generative AI is valuable to their work and saves them time. However, there is a consensus among educators that AI tools should be used ethically and positively, with 84 percent agreeing that users should be taught to use them ethically.
In North Carolina, the Department of Public Instruction has released a guidebook on artificial intelligence, providing recommendations for districts on how to incorporate AI into their curriculum. Some districts, like Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, do not allow certain AI programs on school devices, while others, like Iredell-Statesville Schools, permit limited use among teachers but not students. Pitt County Schools in North Carolina has implemented a color-coded AI use system to help students determine when it is appropriate to use AI tools.
In Santa Fe, the school board has unveiled a plan to guide teachers on using AI in the classroom, including a pilot program to provide AI tutoring software to students. The plan includes a spectrum of AI use for students, ranging from zero (no aid from AI) to four (full use of AI as a ‘co-pilot to enhance human creativity’). In Tennessee, the Kingsport Board of Education has approved a policy on the use of AI by students and teachers, setting guidelines for its ethical and responsible use.
Michigan’s Fenton Area Public Schools allow staff to use AI in ethical and responsible ways, but students are required to rely on their own knowledge and skills when completing school work. Students are prohibited from using AI and natural language processing tools without permission from teachers, as it is believed to undermine essential learning and problem-solving skills. However, students are permitted to use AI for research assistance, data analysis, language translation, writing assistance, and accessibility.
Overall, the integration of AI in education is a complex and evolving process, with different states, districts, and schools approaching it in various ways. The use of AI tools has the potential to transform the learning experience for students and educators alike, but it is essential to ensure that these tools are used responsibly and ethically to maximize their benefits. As technology continues to advance, educators must stay informed and adapt their practices to effectively incorporate AI into the classroom.
