During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, featuring insights from students and guest speakers. A panel of four students from Corona De Sole High School shared their experiences with AI, highlighting its benefits in enhancing reading, writing, and math skills. However, they cautioned that AI is still a developing tool, emphasizing the importance of human oversight in its application.
The students noted that while AI can aid learning, it also poses risks, such as potential misuse for cheating or manipulation. They expressed concerns about the future of AI, questioning whether emerging technologies might outpace current advancements and render existing tools obsolete.
Guest speaker Frederick Lane echoed these sentiments, stating that the integration of AI in schools is no longer a question of \"if\" but \"how.\" He compared AI's role in education to that of calculators, which were once feared to hinder math learning but are now essential tools. Lane emphasized that AI can assist teachers with lesson planning and grading, but he also warned of the dangers of biased information, urging students to verify AI-generated data against credible sources.
The panelists reported that most students use AI as a resource rather than a shortcut for assignments, although some admitted to using tools like ChatGPT for writing assistance. Lane noted that educators are developing methods to detect AI-generated work, addressing concerns that AI might replace teachers.
Overall, the meeting highlighted the dual nature of AI in education—its potential to enhance learning while also presenting challenges that require careful management and oversight.