Utilizing Artificial Intelligence for Educational Purposes in the Classroom
The district of Ulster BOCES is at the forefront of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its educational system, with a strong emphasis on the role of teachers in promoting awareness and understanding of this transformative technology.
AI is viewed as a valuable learning tool, akin to calculators or probes in science classes. The district has already implemented School AI, a student-facing generative bot designed for personalized learning. Another tool, Ink Wire, assists with STEM portfolios and lesson planning.
The annual Deeper Learning New York (DLNY) conference, hosted by Ulster BOCES, provided a platform for discussing AI's potential in educational settings. The conference's theme, "Leading for Deeper Learning," resonated with the district's approach, as it emphasized the need for AI to enhance, not replace, learning.
One of the highlights of the conference was the interactive game show, "The Bot or Not Game Show," which formed part of the AI presentation. Another significant event was a Deep Dive session on using AI in the classroom.
The discussions at the conference underscored the importance of developing a clear vision of what good learning looks like in an AI-influenced world. Education leaders were encouraged to focus on personalization in learning, where students find and solve meaningful problems through creativity and applied knowledge. They were also urged to embrace the concept of human interdependence, preparing students not just for current demands but for an uncertain future shaped by AI.
The conference also emphasized that AI literacy is essential for every student, but teaching skills likely to be automated soon is less valuable. The approach advocated is one where AI is integrated thoughtfully to enhance deeper learning while preparing students for an evolving AI-driven society.
In special education, School AI acts as a personalized tutor to help students meet Individualised Education Program (IEP) goals. The district also uses Grammarly as an AI tool to assist with creative writing.
A two-day workshop with 40 teachers was held to discuss AI through the lens of student privacy. The general rule for teachers in the district is: "Unless the tech department has purchased the tool, don't input any student data into it."
While some educators have adopted an "abstinence-based" policy towards AI, it is hoped that schools will embrace this transformative technology. The consensus is that an abstinence-based AI policy is not beneficial for teachers and students. Instead, the focus should be on supporting responsible use of AI, particularly student data privacy and academic integrity.
In conclusion, the district of Ulster BOCES is leading the way in integrating AI into education, fostering a culture of thoughtful adoption and responsible use. The district's approach emphasizes the need for personalization, human interdependence, and AI literacy, preparing students for an evolving AI-driven society.
- The district of Ulster BOCES considers Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a valuable learning tool, similar to calculators or probes in science classes, serving in the implementation of personalized learning with tools like School AI.
- Ink Wire, another tool used in the district, assists with STEM portfolios and lesson planning, exhibiting the district's commitment to technology-driven education and self-development.
- During the annual Deeper Learning New York (DLNY) conference, hosted by Ulster BOCES, the district emphasized AI's potential to enhance, rather than replace, learning and highlighted its role in providing personalized, deeper learning experiences.
- In light of the discussions at the conference, it is crucial for education leaders to focus on fostering human interdependence, preparing students for an AI-driven future while valuing creativity and problem-solving skills.
- In special education, the district uses AI tools like School AI as a personalized tutor to help students meet Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, underscoring the potential benefits of AI integration across various educational contexts.
