As educators implement AI tools in the classroom, they should consider how to approach the conversation with their students around using AI. Kimber Underdown explains, “We need to start educating students about AI in K-12 schools, to get them college and career ready. Many schools and individual educators are looking at teaching students how, when and why to use AI tools, and specifically how to use them ethically, responsibility and appropriately.”
This approach builds on many foundational skills that have always been an important aspect of education. Underdown adds, “We have always taught students how to use creative and critical thinking, as these skills are desperately needed for their future careers, education and living skills. If we intentionally and strategically put AI usage into the curriculum, it gives students guidelines on how they can use AI appropriately at various stages of their lives.”
It is essential that high school teachers start having proactive conversations with their students about the responsible use of AI to prepare for college and their careers. “So many career fields are requiring their workers to have backgrounds in AI, and we are always aiming to prepare our students for the future. If we neglect AI, it will leave our students at a disadvantage, especially when compared to other parts of the world, where students may potentially have been exposed to AI sooner than our students were,” says Underdown.
This global shift isn’t just theoretical; it’s already happening in many classrooms. She adds, “A study by the Digital Education Council showed that 86% of college students (worldwide) are already using AI in their work.2 Some of them are using it for plagiarism, of course, but others are using it to help give them feedback and correct grammar usage. If we just acknowledge students need to know how to use it ethically, are already using it anyway, and need it for their future careers, then the decision to integrate it into the curriculum truly makes sense.”
