As K-12 educators grapple with the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into education, many feel hesitant about incorporating AI into teaching practices, as highlighted in EducationWeek. Various surveys highlight concerns among teachers about AI, yet AI is already woven into many everyday tools in schools. With this in mind, experts argue that teachers must familiarize themselves with AI, responsibly use it, and model appropriate applications for students.

In a recent "Seat at the Table" conversation on October 16, Education Week’s Peter DeWitt discussed these challenges with Kip Glazer, principal of Mountain View High School in California; Ken Koedinger, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon University; and Education Week’s Deputy Managing Editor, Kevin Bushweller. They shared four key insights on navigating AI adoption in education.

1. Engage Stakeholders to Address Concerns and Questions

To build a supportive environment for AI, school leaders should actively gather feedback from teachers, students, and parents about their knowledge and apprehensions concerning AI. As Glazer pointed out, “We are learning this ever-changing technology together. We have lots of student voices, staff voices, and community voices involved in creating a policy so we can constantly iterate and improve.”
By addressing concerns like AI-driven student cheating and understanding comfort levels with AI, educators and students can explore the technology within a safe, ethical framework.

2. Align AI with Established Teaching Strategies

Professor Koedinger emphasized the importance of recognizing which teaching strategies AI supports. Rather than becoming captivated by AI’s capabilities, such as generating lesson plans or customizing instruction, educators should focus on how AI complements proven methods.
Educators must remember foundational practices, like nurturing teacher-student relationships and encouraging struggling students. “Those things are so important [and] can’t get lost while we talk about the technology,” Koedinger advised. This approach keeps pedagogy at the forefront, allowing technology to support—not replace—the instructor’s role.

3. Provide Purposeful Training on AI’s Strengths and Limitations

Teachers and students need to understand that AI is not a perfect or omniscient solution. Koedinger highlighted that AI is simply another tool that can aid educators. Encouraging teachers to experiment with AI in a controlled way helps them see what works best in their specific settings.
Additionally, organizations like the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and TeachAI offer valuable resources for building AI literacy. As Bushweller noted, these resources can support educators in understanding AI’s potential and limitations, equipping them to guide students in its responsible use.

4. Avoid Rushing AI Implementation Despite Rapid Technological Progress

Finally, school leaders should take a measured approach when implementing AI. As Glazer warned, the speed of AI advancements often outpaces educational institutions’ ability to keep up. She recommended a cautious, deliberate pace, saying, “Sometimes, slow and deliberate and really listening to the voice of the people we are serving is much better than rushing to make decisions. We need to build up some resilience and patience as we get lots of information and input.”

In the evolving landscape of AI, thoughtful, inclusive planning can help schools better serve their communities while embracing the educational potential of new technology.