Discussing the Artificial Intelligence Strategy with School Parents
In a forward-thinking approach, Alana Winnick, the Educational Technology Director at Pocantico Hills Central School District in New York and author of The Generative Age: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Education, is advocating for greater transparency in the use of AI in schools.
Winnick believes that educating students on AI literacy can help alleviate any fears or concerns parents may have about AI use in schools. She advises that educators should always answer questions that arise about AI and its use with students. This openness is crucial, as it helps students confidently and eloquently explain their interactions with AI to parents.
Winnick has witnessed the transformational impact of AI on English as a new language students. She also believes that AI can be effective with younger students as well, helping to answer their many questions and enabling their creativity.
The message conveyed to parents should stress that the goal is not perfection but providing opportunities for students to explore, experiment, and reflect using AI. This instills hope and responsibility, showing that AI is integrated thoughtfully, with ethical reasoning and curiosity at the forefront. Framing AI use as a partnership among educators, students, and families can support understanding and acceptance of AI’s educational benefits and challenges.
Winnick emphasizes that AI can serve as a powerful tutor in schools, providing answers to students' questions and breaking down complex concepts. She suggests reminding parents that their children may already be interacting with AI at home, such as with Siri or Alexa.
In some settings, explaining AI tools being used in the classroom to parents may not be necessary, especially if the school has good vetting procedures for tech tools. However, Winnick stresses that educators should become AI-literate themselves, which includes experimenting with AI, joining professional communities, and being honest about uncertainties. This approach helps prepare students for an AI-driven world while fostering a collaborative culture among educators, students, and parents.
Winnick's experience stands out for its emphasis on transparency, honesty, and collaboration. She is a Tech & Learning Innovative Award Winner, demonstrating her commitment to innovative education practices. While she has not provided specific tips for communication formats, her emphasis on openness and partnership suggests that these principles should guide any communication with parents about AI in schools.
- Alana Winnick suggests that educators should embrace AI-literacy, experimenting with AI, joining professional communities, and being honest about uncertainties, as this approach prepares students for an AI-driven world and fosters collaboration between educators, students, and parents.
- Winnick believes that AI can serve as a valuable learning tool in schools, offering answers to students' questions and helping to break down complex concepts, especially in subjects like English as a new language for some students.
- In line with her emphasis on transparency, Winnick advises educators to answer questions honestly and openly, whether they relate to AI usage, student interactions with AI, or the integration of AI in education and self-development at the school.
