AI in Education: A Guide for North Dakota Schools 

Published Date: 08/07/2024

North Dakota School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler has unveiled new state guidance on artificial intelligence policies, highlighting the importance of planning and alignment with existing educational priorities.

The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) has released comprehensive guidance on artificial intelligence (AI) policies for local schools. According to School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler, this initiative aims to support teachers and administrators in effectively integrating AI into their instructional practices.

The guidance, developed by a collaborative effort involving educators, NDDPI, the Department of Career and Technical Education, and state information technology agencies, provides valuable insights for schools to craft their own AI policies. Baesler emphasized that any instructional tool, including AI, requires careful planning and alignment with existing educational priorities, goals, and values. She stressed the importance of human oversight, ensuring that AI is used responsibly and its output is reviewed for errors.

The Human-Technology-Human approach, which prioritizes human control and review, is key to harnessing the benefits of AI in education. By keeping the focus on preparing students for future challenges, Baesler believes that AI can become a valuable tool in supporting teachers and students alike.

Steve Snow and Kelsie Seiler, from the NDDPI Office of School Approval and Opportunity, contributed to the development of the guidance. They drew inspiration from other state agency education agencies and technology websites, such as Code.org and TeachAI.org, to create a tailored approach for North Dakota students.

AI is particularly effective in data analysis, predictive analytics, and automating repetitive tasks. However, it falls short in areas like emotional intelligence, interdisciplinary research, and problem-solving. Snow and Seiler highlighted the potential of AI in designing lesson plans that align with North Dakota's academic content standards, allowing teachers to adapt quickly to student needs.

The NDDPI guidance serves as a starting point for schools to develop local policies that address AI adoption. It provides general suggestions on how to consider factors such as infrastructure, professional development, and governance. By taking a thoughtful and informed approach, schools can create an environment where AI is used to enhance teaching and learning.

   The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) is dedicated to providing high-quality educational opportunities for students across the state. With a focus on innovation and excellence, NDDPI aims to support teachers, administrators, and students in achieving their full potential.

FAQS:

Q: What is the main goal of the NDDPI's AI guidance?

A: The guidance aims to support teachers and administrators in effectively integrating AI into their instructional practices.

Q: What is the importance of human oversight in AI adoption?

A: Human oversight ensures that AI is used responsibly and its output is reviewed for errors, maintaining the focus on preparing students for future challenges.

Q: How can AI be used to support teachers?

A: AI can be used to design lesson plans that align with North Dakota's academic content standards, allowing teachers to adapt quickly to student needs.

Q: What are the limitations of AI in education?

A: AI falls short in areas like emotional intelligence, interdisciplinary research, and problem-solving.

Q: What is the purpose of the NDDPI's guidance on AI policies?

A: The guidance provides general suggestions on how to consider factors such as infrastructure, professional development, and governance, helping schools develop local policies that address AI adoption.

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