5 Back-to-School AI Must-Haves for K-12 Teachers
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As the new school year begins, artificial intelligence has become a reality in classrooms around the world.
How can educators harness this powerful technology without getting lost? To find out, I reached out to teachers around the world. Their expertise helped me outline a simple roadmap for all teachers trying to find their footing in this new world of AI.
Here are five steps to get you started:
1. Start small
Go at your own pace and gradually build your own repertoire of tools. “Don't try to transform your entire educational approach overnight,” advises Ioannis Anapliotis of Nea Paideia Schools in Athens, Greece. “Start with simple AI tools and applications, and then expand as you gain confidence.”
This approach helps you become familiar with AI's capabilities without becoming overwhelmed. California educator Merissa Sadler-Holder puts it simply: “Pick one tool and play, play, play. Once you're comfortable with that tool, choose another tool.”
Which tool will you choose? Check out part 1 and part 2 of my articles on educators' favorite AI tools.
2. Start with personalization and efficiency
There are a growing number of use cases for AI in education, but one of its most powerful applications is the ability to personalize the learning experience for students. Ioannis suggests using “AI-powered content creation tools that can help develop engaging lesson materials and personalized learning resources.” With the right tools, differentiating student materials can happen in seconds.
Using AI isn't about replacing your job, but rather enhancing it. The efficiency these AI tools provide allows you to focus on the more important parts of your job. Harriet Benbow, Education Support Officer at PKC Scotland, reminded us, “AI is a fantastic tool to lighten your workload – 'work smarter, not harder.'”
3. Consider existing policies and support
It's important to be aware of existing school policies and the support already available. Maggie Layfield of NetSupport in Georgia advises, “First, find out what your school/district AI policy is (or if a policy exists), and identify fellow educators who have used AI effectively within their school and can provide some initial guidance.”
This step isn't just about compliance, it's about protecting your students. Renee Dawson, an education technology consultant from Georgia, reminds us to “always be vigilant about protecting student data and confidentiality.”
4. Prioritize transparency to build trust
When using AI with students, keep communication open. Doan Winkel of John Carroll University in Ohio suggests a collaborative approach: “Tell students you're new to AI and want to learn together. Ask them how they're using it. Ask them to give a quick mini-presentation of their use case. Essentially, learn from them.”
Transparency builds trust between teachers and students, leading to a richer learning experience. Jessica L. Parker, a lecturer at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, said of her approach: “I disclose my use of AI to my students (for example, to create discussion prompts and personalized feedback based on their interests), and in return, I ask students to disclose their use of AI in their assignments.”
5. Collaborate with your colleagues
Your AI journey shouldn't be undertaken alone. Collaborating with colleagues enriches your learning and provides valuable support. Benjamin Sharratt, vice principal at GEMS Wellington International School, Dubai, suggests “collaborating with colleagues across subjects and grade levels to share insights, refine your approach, and gain confidence from practice.”
Darren White, academic technology lead at the UK Academies Enterprise Trust, suggests a simple, yet effective approach to collaboration: “Share your findings with your colleagues and learn together what works.”
As you embark on your AI journey this school year, remember that we are all in a continuous learning process when it comes to AI. By starting small, adhering to policies, remaining transparent, and collaborating with your colleagues, you will be well on your way to leveraging AI's full potential.
The goal isn't to become an AI expert; AI is a means to an end. It's important to develop competence and confidence. Benjamin Sharratt says: “Start by embracing AI with a curious and open mind. Try different tools that serve the diverse needs of students, subjects, and age groups, and don't be afraid to make mistakes early on.”
For those who feel overwhelmed, Dr. Jennifer Chan Wasal of the University of Hong Kong offers this encouraging message: “It's okay to be busy putting out fires at first!” Learn from each experience and continually improve your approach with your colleagues and students.
Finally, I would like to leave you with the words of Dr. Carrie Woods, adjunct business lecturer at Marian University in Indianapolis: “AI is not going away, so the sooner we can make it part of the academic process, the better.”
Part 2 of this article will cover steps 6 through 10 and will be published on Saturday, August 24, 2024.
