As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly spreads in American schools, controversies regarding double standards are emerging. While concerns about cheating and loopholes lead to restrictions on students' use of AI, teachers are actively utilizing AI in their own work.
On the 14th (local time), The New York Times (NYT) reported that teachers are using AI to reduce repetitive administrative tasks and the heavy burden of grading. They are also receiving help from AI in preparing lesson materials and guiding struggling students. In contrast, students are prohibited from using generative AI tools like ChatGPT to complete assignments, with some schools considering this as cheating.
A representative from a charter school in Washington, D.C., noted, "AI apps like Photomath are essentially cheating tools." However, the representative stated that they personally utilize AI to analyze student data and develop customized teaching strategies. NYT pointed out, "The issue is not whether to allow AI, but how to use it."
Some teachers are using AI in relatively ethical ways. John Gold, a middle school teacher in Rhode Island, has trained ChatGPT on years of accumulated lesson materials to summarize complex reading passages and create example essays at various levels for students. He emphasized that "explaining to students how to use AI and what ethical standards to apply is key."
In Dallas, Texas, the introduction of AI into automated essay grading systems is significantly affecting public education. The Texas Education Agency has entered into a $390 million contract over five years to introduce an automated grading system, but controversies regarding score reliability have arisen. Regrading results revealed that about 2,000 essays received higher scores.
Thus, while AI is a useful tool that alleviates the workload for teachers, it can also tempt students into cheating. Mike Sullivan, a middle school teacher in Brockton, Massachusetts, said, "More than half of the students are solving problems using Google Lens during class," adding that "both teachers and students are getting lost on the boundaries of AI."
The education sector is facing various temptations and challenges surrounding the introduction of AI. Big technology corporations like Google, Microsoft, and Khan Academy are pouring AI-based teaching tools into the market, and there are concerns that many teachers and education policymakers are rushing into implementation without fully understanding the educational effects and ethical limitations of AI.
Stephanie Elizalde, the superintendent of education in Dallas, Texas, said, "Not teaching AI is irresponsible," adding, "We need to prepare for the future of our children." Experts advise that teachers should first establish standards and transparent principles for using AI, then discuss norms for utilizing AI with students.