Since 2016, a dedicated educator has been shaping the future of visual and media arts at a prominent college preparatory school in Phoenix, Arizona. This educator teaches a variety of subjects including Journalism, Digital Photography, AP Studio Art, and Digital Media Production, while also leading student clubs focused on art, journalism, photography, and video. With a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction, this educator is also a co-creator of a newsletter dedicated to the intersection of mindfulness and AI in education.
In recent discussions, the author of a thought-provoking book on youth and mental health sparked a nationwide dialogue about the effects of technology on young minds. During a podcast, he made a notable mention of an educational platform’s AI tool, highlighting its potential to positively influence learning if used correctly. He suggested that a device dedicated solely to this platform could enhance educational outcomes significantly.
“If we could have a device that just did this educational platform and nothing else, I could see that having a positive impact on education.”
Insights from a recent podcast discussion
As an educator who frequently integrates AI tools into the classroom, I was intrigued by this conversation. Shortly after, our school had the privilege of hosting a visit from the Chief Learning Officer of the educational platform, who shared insights on how they are adapting to the increasing presence of AI in educational settings.
During her presentation, she elaborated on the evolution of technology in education and addressed common concerns regarding the role of teachers in an AI-driven world. Her discussion covered various technical aspects of their AI tutor, including how it operates and the ethical considerations involved. I left the session feeling grateful for the thoughtful approach taken by this educational platform.
For those unfamiliar with the AI tool, I highly recommend exploring its features to understand how it differs from more generalized AI models. While there is still much work to be done to enhance the capabilities of AI tools, including this one, I have come to appreciate the careful consideration that has gone into its development. The creators have designed a system that helps navigate the complex ethical landscape of educational resources, something that individual teachers often struggle to manage alone.
AI, when utilized effectively, can serve as a remarkable educational resource. The Chief Learning Officer emphasized that AI should complement traditional teaching methods, and I believe there is a significant role for such tools in the classroom. For instance, students with ADHD have shared how AI tools assist them in maintaining focus and managing their tasks. If this AI tutor can facilitate that process, I fully support its use.
Moreover, it is encouraging to see efforts being made to bridge the gap between conventional teaching methods and AI-enhanced approaches. Many educators desire tools that simplify their workload, such as creating question banks or streamlining instructions. While general AI tools can assist with these tasks, not all teachers have the time or resources to learn how to utilize the latest models effectively. This AI tutor may provide a smoother transition for educators, which is essential as we move forward in an increasingly AI-integrated educational landscape.
However, the ethical implications of AI in education cannot be overlooked. Positioned between traditional educational tools and social media, AI captures students’ attention in various ways, not always aligned with academic goals. It was reassuring to hear how the educational platform is employing established ethical frameworks to guide their development of AI tools, ensuring they prioritize student privacy and essential learning qualities.
It is refreshing to witness a platform embrace AI with a focus on ethics and purpose. The insights shared during the presentation left me cautiously optimistic about the future of AI in education. We need tools that enhance, rather than diminish, the teacher-student relationship. This educational platform seems to recognize that need.
Following the visit from the Chief Learning Officer, I remain convinced that AI can empower educators to work more creatively and efficiently while adhering to ethical standards. When tools are developed with input from researchers, educators, ethicists, and students, they can enhance the educational experience without replacing the vital connections between teachers and students.
The trusted content and resources provided by this educational platform can lead to significant improvements in learning outcomes when supported by comprehensive training and implementation strategies.