Implementation Resources for AI in Education
Blog Post
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April 24, 2024
Summary
With the rapid use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and tools in schools across the country, educators, policymakers, and leaders are grappling with fundamental questions about how educators and learners might safely and effectively use, understand, and evaluate AI. As a result, states, districts, and others have developed implementation guidelines and frameworks listed in the table below. In addition, our colleagues at the Open Technology Institute created a complementary guide for AI privacy and security considerations in education.
Background
AI, generally known as the concept of developing intelligent machines, began as a field of academic research in the 1950s. By the end of the 1970s, the first microprocessors emerged, and as the field evolved, access to massive amounts of data and new computing power enabled computers to learn from data and make predictions. Most recently, machine learning has led to generative AI which can create new content and information, and large language models (LLMs) that exhibit reasoning, cognition, attention, and creativity. Although AI has long been responsible for improving smartphone cameras, trip planning, and search algorithms, the application of generative AI and LLMs is quickly permeating many fields including education.
The spread has been rapid and with excitement and trepidation. In education, a primary question is how to prepare students and educators to use these tools in ways that embrace critical thinking, remain human-centered, and are responsible, ethical, and safe.
In January 2024, the White House announced key actions to be taken for implementing “safe, secure, and trustworthy artificial intelligence.” In the meantime, states and districts are developing guidelines for educators and learners who have embraced AI, those who are unsure, and others who aren’t sure where to begin.
Resources
For states, districts, and communities who are considering developing guidelines, we compiled a repository of AI guidelines and resources intended for use in K-12 education; our colleagues at New America’s Open Technology Institute have created a complementary guide for educators grappling with ethical privacy and security considerations inherent when using AI.
Note: The listing of the below resources is solely for educational purposes and does not imply endorsement by New America, nor discrimination against similar resources not mentioned.