Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the educational landscape, offering both opportunities and challenges for K-12 education, according to EdNC. At a recent webinar, researchers from Bellwether Learning Systems shared findings from their three-part report, Learning Systems, which explores the implications of AI in education and provides recommendations for educators and EdTech professionals.
The report, published in September 2024, draws on research conducted between May and August 2024, incorporating insights from over 50 AI experts. It examines the foundations, current applications, and considerations surrounding AI in education.

The report focuses on generative AI and large language models, which are capable of producing new text, images, and other media based on existing data. These technologies have already begun reshaping the education landscape, supporting personalized learning and enhancing administrative efficiency.
However, concerns remain about their use in schools. Issues such as data bias, accuracy, lack of transparency, and potential misuse (e.g., cheating or copyright infringement) have been raised. According to Bellwether, addressing these challenges will require thoughtful design and infrastructure development.

Bellwether emphasizes the ubiquity and transformative power of AI. As Michelle Croft, Associate Partner at Bellwether, explained: “AI is different from prior fads and EdTech trends. It’s not only very powerful compared to prior ones, but it’s ubiquitous. It’s changing workforce expectations and the skills students will need for the future.”

Researchers highlighted the need for schools to adapt to these changes by reskilling workers and ensuring students are equipped with the skills required for the evolving job market.

Despite the potential of AI, its adoption in schools remains uneven. While most teachers and students recognize its importance, only half of U.S. teens report using AI tools such as ChatGPT, with even fewer adults engaging with these technologies. One key barrier is the lack of clear guidance—only half of U.S. states have issued AI policies or frameworks as of August 2024.

This lack of oversight leaves schools vulnerable to misunderstandings and conflicts, as families may challenge disciplinary actions related to AI use. Researchers also noted disparities in AI access, with higher usage reported among male private school students compared to rural, Black, and/or female students.

The Bellwether report offers three main recommendations to guide the integration of AI in education:

1. Building Strong AI Capacity: Schools must prioritize AI literacy to prepare students for the future workforce.
2. Developing Robust Infrastructure: Policymakers and educators need to create frameworks that support equitable access to AI tools.
3. Designing Thoughtfully: Efforts should focus on addressing data bias and ensuring AI tools align with educational goals.

Researchers predict state-level oversight on AI use in education will outpace federal regulations in the coming years. Districts often wait for state guidance before developing their own policies, but this delay can hinder effective integration and equitable access to AI tools.

Croft highlighted the importance of proactive efforts: “To make sure students leave the school system with appropriate skills, the education system needs to adjust accordingly.”

As AI continues to evolve, its role in education will become increasingly significant. The findings from Bellwether’s Learning Systems report underscore the need for thoughtful, proactive approaches to ensure that AI benefits all students equitably.