AI Transforms Georgia Classrooms: New Tools and Challenges Ahead

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping education in Georgia, with K-12 classrooms increasingly adopting the technology to enhance teaching methods. Schools are using AI to create rubrics, develop interactive lessons, and update curricula. Despite concerns about its impact on critical thinking skills, educators are exploring “calculated risks” in integrating AI into their teaching practices.

Lindsay Linsky, an education professor at the University of North Georgia, emphasizes that “AI is here to stay.” School districts such as DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett are actively incorporating AI into their curriculums, both as a standalone subject and as a tool to support learning in areas like mathematics and English. In Fulton County, for instance, students in advanced math classes benefit from Edia, an AI-driven platform that offers personalized feedback and instruction.

Schools are also utilizing AI in creative ways. Heather Van Looy, who oversees instructional technology in Fulton, reports that teachers are using AI to assist with brainstorming for science projects and essays. “In that case, I’ve set the parameters for an AI chatbot that my students will interact with,” she explains, highlighting the importance of structured use of AI tools.

Gwinnett County has established the nation’s first “AI-themed high school,” Seckinger High School, where students can pursue a three-course AI career pathway. This initiative aims to give students an in-depth understanding of AI development. Yet, many educators remain concerned about their readiness to teach AI effectively. A study by the EdWeek Research Center found that over 70% of teachers reported lacking professional development in AI.

Lisa Morgan, president of the Georgia Association of Educators, noted that while some districts are providing training specific to their policies on AI, there is a noticeable gap in skills between younger teachers familiar with digital technology and older instructors who may not have had the same exposure.

One popular tool among educators is MagicSchool AI, founded by former teacher Adeel Khan, which assists teachers in delivering personalized writing feedback and creating engaging learning experiences. The platform boasts nearly 90,000 users across public and private schools in Georgia. Khan believes that any convenience offered to teachers can significantly enhance their efficiency, especially given their already demanding schedules.

Despite the potential benefits of AI in the classroom, there are significant concerns regarding its implications. A recent study by Pew Research revealed that one in four teachers fear that AI tools could cause more harm than good, potentially stifling creativity and critical thinking among students. Privacy issues also arise, with educators worried about the risk of sensitive student data being used to train AI models.

In response to these challenges, some districts are taking proactive measures. Van Looy advocates for more thoughtful instructional strategies, such as incorporating oral exams and traditional assignments that prioritize ethical use of technology. Similarly, Jimmy Fisher, principal of Seckinger High School, emphasizes a balanced approach to technology integration.

With initiatives like the one in Gwinnett, where a cohort of teacher leaders is being formed to explore responsible AI use, the conversation around AI in education is evolving. Sallie Holloway, who leads AI initiatives in Gwinnett, highlights the importance of training educators and students on how to utilize AI effectively and ethically.

In DeKalb County, plans are underway to establish a task force focused on sustainable AI implementation across schools. Chief Information Officer Kermit Belcher indicates that while the district has not yet adopted enterprise-level AI tools, they are considering their options.

In terms of privacy, Khan assures that MagicSchool AI does not use student data for training its models, adhering to stringent privacy standards. Fulton County has also restricted access to certain AI tools, allowing only vetted resources to address administrators’ privacy concerns.

As the landscape of education continues to change, the pressure on educators to adapt is palpable. Graduates entering a competitive job market must be equipped with skills relevant to an AI-driven economy. Larry Williams, president of the Technology Association of Georgia, notes that many young people are already using AI to launch businesses, underscoring the need for educational institutions to prepare students for future challenges.

“Through partnerships with leaders in education, business, and government, we’re preparing both existing and emerging workforces for the future,” said Emily Johnston, a spokesperson for the organization, emphasizing the critical role of computer science education in Georgia schools.

The integration of AI in education holds promise, yet it requires careful consideration to ensure that both students and teachers can navigate this new landscape effectively and ethically. As Georgia schools continue to explore AI’s potential, the balance between innovation and responsible use remains a focal point of discussion.