Enriching Education - Teachers and AI

 As the school year wraps up, many teachers are facing layoffs due to declining enrollments, budget issues, and the end of pandemic relief funds. A recent Pew survey found that 25% of teachers consider AI to do more harm than good. However, unlike many past advancements in EdTech that were considered optional, AI has become essential for many teachers.

CK-12, a non-profit educational organization, is leading the way in AI-driven personalized learning with their innovative software, teacher assistant. The platform provides insightful patterns in student skill levels by analyzing their performance on specific questions and topics. This allows teachers to identify students who may need assistance before moving on to the next lesson. 

Additionally, the platform pinpoints learning gaps, offering personalized insights into where students are struggling and enabling tailored support and intervention strategies. Visual class reports and heatmaps offer comprehensive insights into class dynamics, making it easy for teachers to identify students requiring direct intervention and provide timely support. Lastly, the platform streamlines grading with auto-graded assignments, seamlessly integrating with Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Google Classroom, Schoology, and Canvas. 

This frees up valuable time for teachers to focus on instruction while ensuring efficient and accurate grading processes.

I had a chance to learn more in this interview with Neeru Kholsa, founder and CEO of CK-12.  

Why are many educators hesitant about AI in education?

Many educators are hesitant about AI in education for several reasons. First, there's a concern about the potential replacement of teachers by AI, which could lead to job insecurity. Additionally, educators worry about the loss of personal connection and the potential for AI to depersonalize the learning experience. Privacy issues and data security also play a significant role in their hesitancy, as AI systems often require access to sensitive student information. Lastly, there's the challenge of ensuring that AI systems are unbiased and equitable, which is critical in diverse educational settings.

How can classroom teachers use AI to streamline parts of their job?

Classroom teachers can use AI to streamline several aspects of their job effectively. AI can automate administrative tasks such as grading, attendance tracking, and scheduling, freeing up valuable time for teachers to focus on direct student engagement. Personalized learning is another area where AI can be beneficial, as it can tailor educational content to meet individual students' needs, thus enhancing their learning experience. Furthermore, AI can assist in identifying students who may need additional support, allowing teachers to intervene promptly. Tools like CK-12’s Flexi, an AI-powered tutor, can also provide supplementary instruction and practice, enabling teachers to better manage classroom dynamics and ensure that all students are on track.

How can educators set parameters for appropriate AI use in the classroom?

Educators can set parameters for appropriate AI use in the classroom by establishing clear guidelines and objectives for its integration. This includes defining the roles that AI will play and ensuring that it complements rather than replaces the human elements of teaching. Educators should also focus on maintaining transparency about how AI systems work and the data they collect, ensuring that students and parents are informed and comfortable with these technologies. Regular training and professional development for teachers are essential to keep them updated on best practices and ethical considerations. Lastly, educators should actively monitor and evaluate the impact of AI on student learning and well-being, making adjustments as needed to ensure that AI enhances rather than hinders the educational experience.