In the ever-evolving landscape of education technology, one of the most promising yet challenging developments is the integration of generative AI (Artificial Intelligence) into K-12 schools. AI has the potential to revolutionize education, offering personalized learning experiences, data-driven insights, and new ways to engage students. “It has exploded like no other technology,” says Don Wolff, Chief Technology Officer for Portland Public Schools.
However, this transformation must be undertaken responsibly, with careful consideration of factors such as privacy, security, ethics, and bias. “What we’re finding in many districts is that most of us are ill-prepared to adopt AI technologies,” says Wolff. Adds Richard Charles, Chief Information Officer for Denver Public Schools, “School districts need policies in place that support the use of AI in a safe and secure manner, and that also support responsible use.”
To aid school districts on this journey, the Council of Great City Schools (CGCS) and CoSN (the Consortium for School Networking) have partnered to develop the K-12 Generative AI (Gen AI) Readiness Checklist Questionnaire—a project supported by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and endorsed by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the National Schools Public Relations Association (NSPRA), AASA (The School Superintendents Organization), and the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA).
Understanding the Generative AI Readiness Checklist Questionnaire
The Gen AI Readiness Checklist Questionnaire is a pivotal tool designed to guide K-12 school districts in assessing their readiness to implement Gen AI technologies. While not an exhaustive assessment, this checklist serves as a preliminary guide for district leaders, including superintendents, district leaders, and technology experts. It helps them evaluate the safety, privacy, security, and ethical implications of using Gen AI in education.
“K-12 leaders are trying to balance the exuberance of teachers and students who are excited to use Gen AI with the fears we are hearing from our colleagues and communities,” says Evangelina Mendoza, Chief Information Technology Officer for the San Antonio Independent School District. “The K-12 Gen AI checklist gives district leaders a starting place and framework to tackle the opportunities and challenges Gen AI will bring to our schools. My team is already working through this list and has identified several readiness factors we had yet to consider as we create policies and procedures for the safe implementation of Gen AI across our district.”
Key Considerations in the Generative AI Checklist
Safety and Privacy: The questionnaire prompts districts to consider the safety and privacy of students and staff when implementing Gen AI. It encourages them to think about data protection, user consent, and secure data handling practices.
Security: Security is paramount in any technology implementation. The checklist helps districts assess their ability to protect AI systems from cyber threats and ensures the confidentiality and integrity of data.
Ethical Implications: Ethics in AI is a critical concern. The questionnaire delves into how districts plan to address issues such as bias, fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI systems.
Bias and Discrimination: To avoid algorithmic bias and discrimination, the checklist encourages districts to examine their data sources, model training, and testing processes. It emphasizes the importance of diverse and inclusive data sets.
Tactical Considerations: Beyond the ethical and security aspects, the checklist prompts districts to think about practical considerations like infrastructure readiness, staff training, and community engagement.
The First Step Towards Responsible AI Adoption
The Gen AI Readiness Checklist Questionnaire represents the initial step in our commitment to supporting school districts in adopting transformative AI technologies. It provides a foundational understanding of the critical considerations required for responsible AI implementation.
What’s Next?
In the next phase, CGCS, CoSN, and AWS plan to introduce a more comprehensive tool—a rubric that will allow districts to self-evaluate their maturity level in terms of Gen AI readiness. This tool will pinpoint specific areas that require further attention and guide districts toward safe and secure adoption of this transformative technology.
Adapting the Resource to Your Needs
The Gen AI Readiness Checklist Questionnaire is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s designed to adapt to each school district’s unique needs. District leaders are encouraged to tailor the resource to their specific circumstances, ensuring it aligns with their instructional and operational objectives.
Conclusion
As AI technology continues to reshape education, it’s essential that school districts approach its adoption thoughtfully and responsibly. The K-12 Generative AI (Gen AI) Readiness Checklist Questionnaire is a valuable resource for guiding districts on this transformative journey. It offers a structured approach to evaluate readiness, prioritize safety and ethics, and prepare for a future where AI empowers students and educators alike.