Artificial intelligence is making waves in education, promising to personalize learning, enhance student engagement, and support teachers in new ways.
But like all educational technology, there’s a time and place for AI in the classroom. Before jumping on the AI bandwagon, educators need to ask the right questions to ensure this emerging technology helps—not hinders—student learning.
While assessing a new AI-powered tool, ask yourself these practical question based on state AI guidelines:
Avoid inputting student names or personal information that might breach privacy rules. Keeping student data safe is priority number one.
Understanding data ownership and security measures is key to staying compliant with federal and state student data privacy laws (such as COPPA and SOPPA).
Be alert to biases embedded in algorithms. Teachers need to actively monitor and minimize how viewpoint and omission biases in AI impact student learning.
Transparency builds trust. If students or parents ask, “Why did the AI suggest this?”, you should be able to provide a clear answer.
AI isn’t perfect. It can make mistakes, sometimes confidently. Double-check AI output before it finds its way into your classroom materials.
Craft assignments that require personal insight or unique applications of knowledge. Make it harder for AI to do all the heavy lifting.
AI should complement your educational goals, not sideline them. Ensure the tool supports, rather than distracts from, your curriculum.
Focus on tools that encourage students to think deeply, question, and solve problems—not just spit out answers.
Look for AI features that adapt to individual learning styles, offering differentiated paths that engage each student where they are.
AI should free up time for more meaningful human interactions, not replace them. Make sure the tool strengthens your connection with students.
AI is evolving fast; so should your skills. Seek out training and peer discussions to stay informed and make the most of AI in your teaching practice.
Like the internet before it, AI is a powerful tool poised to transform significant swaths of teaching and learning.
But like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how it’s used. Asking these questions can help ensure that AI supports educational goals, respects privacy, and enriches the student learning experience without unintended drawbacks.
So, go ahead! Explore, question, and use AI as a partner in learning—not as a substitute for the human touch.
Tim directs the Learning Technology Center, providing strategic leadership, expertise, and operational management for statewide technology and digital learning initiatives.
Sam leads and supports the execution and growth of LTC services through the development and creation of innovative, impactful, and timely digital content.
Parents want to know how AI will impact their child’s learning. These strategies can help districts build trust and clear up misunderstandings as AI enters the classroom.
At the start of 2025, Illinois’ AI task force will release recommendations for use in multiple sectors – including education. Here’s how their recommendations may impact statewide guidance for AI use in schools.
AI is here to stay. So, what’s next? Author and educator Matt Miller joins us to explore how AI is reshaping teaching right here, right now and remind us about keeping human connection at the
