Pro AI in Schools: Preparing Students for an AI-Driven World
Pro AI in Schools: Preparing Students for an AI-Driven World
Debunk the Stereotypes: You Are NOT a Cheater for Using AI
Pro AI in Schools: Preparing Students for an AI-Driven World
A few days ago, I ran into a video where a teacher was questioning the relevance of their role. They were wondering what the point of them even being there if kids are just going to use AI to cheat and generate answers.
Our teachers are underpaid, undersupported, bombarded with having more administrative work to do, dealing with unmotivated kids with bad behaviors, and the underlying thoughts of random shootings occurring at their workplace. This leaves them burnt-out and having to do far less actual teaching. The stress on teachers and our children are creating an unwell society.
We have an outdated unrealistic school system and I’m not sure how we will turn it around.
However, this video ignited an even greater passion in me to advocate for integrating AI into our school system. It raises an important question: if some of our teaching methods are outdated, what impact will that have on our future workforce?
I’m coming from the perspective of a Neurospicy GenX mom of a teenager, a former school aide for kids with developmental disabilities, and an advocate for children. I do not claim to be a professional in any field.
I remember how the internet crashed into our lives, changing everything. It was a little wild at first, right?! Now, AI is here, making just as big of an impact and it’s here to stay.
Yes, we worry about tech leading to shortcuts. But it’s time to rethink AI as more than just a 'cheating' tool and start seeing it as a way to build real-world skills. It’s not here to replace genuine cognitive learning. It’s a powerful tool that helps enhance our learning experience.
Here’s why I believe AI has a positive role in education:
Personalized Learning: It can adapt to each student’s pace and learning style, helping kids grasp tough concepts.
Enhanced Engagement: Making learning interactive and fun keeps students motivated and curious. Interactive tools and simulations can bring subjects to life, helping students make real-world connections with what they learn.
Focus on Critical Thinking: When it handles repetitive tasks, teachers and students can focus on developing critical thinking, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving skills. Essentials that AI can never replace.
Support for Teachers: These tools can help educators with grading, planning, and finding other resources. This can give teachers more time for what matters most: connecting with students and nurturing their potential.
Preparation for the Future: We live in an AI-driven world, it’s everywhere. It’s in workplaces, healthcare, and even in our homes. Introducing it in our school system will prepare kids for a future where knowing how to work alongside AI is crucial.
As a mom who’s been in the school system, I see the impact this could make. How we could empower students to be proactive users, not passive ones. They’re the future workforce. If we equip them now, they’ll be ready to take it on.
They’ll know how to collaborate with it, problem-solve creatively, and find their unique voices in this AI-driven world. It isn’t a substitute for learning, and we can definitely debunk the stereotypical notion that using it equates to cheating.
Personally, I think of it as a coach to help me when I get stuck on something. AI literacy will eventually be as essential as reading, writing, and math. We can prepare our students to use technology smartly, all while building the cognitive skills they’ll need for life.
What do you think is the most important first step to bringing AI into our school system?
What’s going on with Lori K today? Neurospicy GenX experimenting with AI and disrupting societal norms. Pro AI in schools.
We need more people (and teachers) who think like this. No point burying our heads in the sand about AI.
I teach at the community college and I've been thinking about Ai for a bit. Here's my 2 cents on the issue:
1) many of our faculty don't know what Ai can do (yet). They're scared of it and worried that it will be used to cheat. They don't know what it CAN do that's legitimate!
So, we first need to teach faculty LEGITIMATE uses for AI. Ask it for a weekly meal plan. Ask it for a place to go on vacation. Ask it to explain something you don't know. Check its work. First, the teachers need to know what it can and can not do. Then they will use it.
2) Then use AI critically. Make sure that students understand that it is NOT a partner. It may sound like one, but it is a calculator. Never forget that it is a calculator.