Some educators express concerns that school district policies addressing issues like academic dishonesty and data protection may quickly become outdated due to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI).
During a webinar for Education Week titled “Ready or Not, AI Is Here: How K–12 Schools Should Respond,” experts recommended that districts maintain simple AI policies to adapt to the fast-paced changes in technology.
Tammi Sisk, an educational expert at Fairfax County schools in northern Virginia, emphasized the importance of simplicity in policies to navigate evolving circumstances effectively. She stressed the need to avoid overly complex policies that could hinder adaptation as technologies evolve.
Sisk, involved in developing AI policies for Fairfax, suggested focusing on providing practical, straightforward guidance and involving teachers in the policy-making process to offer valuable insights.
The key priorities highlighted by Sisk include safeguarding student data and ensuring educators have a clear understanding of AI capabilities and limitations.
In contrast, Kris Hagel, the executive director of online learning at Peninsula College District in Washington state, revealed that they have opted to establish “principles and beliefs” regarding AI instead of rigid policies due to the rapidly changing landscape.
Hagel noted the swift pace of AI development and the uncertainty surrounding its future implications, leading the district to prioritize flexibility over stringent regulations.
The district’s approach underscores the importance of empowering teachers to retain decision-making authority even in the presence of AI influences. The focus remains on promoting active participation and maintaining a human-centered approach in educational decision-making processes.
The overarching goal is to ensure that AI complements rather than supplants human judgment in educational settings, encouraging a balanced approach that values human input alongside technological advancements.
For further insights on how educational institutions can effectively adapt to the challenges posed by AI, please refer to the accompanying video presentation.
