Advances in technology and the digital shift from textbooks to e-books have brought artificial intelligence into the classroom.
MACON, Ga. — Artificial intelligence is a hot topic, especially for schools.
But here in Bibb County, schools are incorporating artificial intelligence into the classroom.
It is often said that children these days have the world in their hands.
According to research from Harvard University, artificial intelligence has been around since the 1950s, but its capabilities have improved significantly in the past few years.
Advances in technology and the digital shift from textbooks to e-books have brought artificial intelligence into the classroom.
Bibb County School District Superintendent Dan Sims just returned from a two-day AI conference. Mr. Sims said he was able to learn about the role of AI in education and the role of AI in today's classrooms.
For students, Sims said, this could be a tool that does more good than bad.
“There are a lot of things in the AI world that can help us make things even better,” Sims says. “The question is whether we can get smarter about how AI can change the way we teach and learn.”
Sims was aware of concerns about students lacking academic integrity, but after the conference, he saw AI as an opportunity to help students grow.
“Artificial intelligence allows us to take time away from specific tasks and focus on something bigger, and I think the same thing will happen for our students,” Sims said. “We have people in our district who are actively using artificial intelligence to improve their jobs.”
Heather Van Atta teaches social studies at Central High School.
“This is very helpful and once you understand it, you feel more confident,” Van Atta said.
This is her first year teaching at Chuo High School, and she says that even in basic classes, AI is becoming a more interactive tool.
“I thought it was really great for students who don't draw much to have the option of using AI to elicit ideas and show off their knowledge in a fun way,” Van Atta said. “The fun things we do with these kids are what they'll remember. We don't bring up history at parties unless it's a fun history lesson in class.”
Van Atta says taking the time to understand and empathize with students helps gain trust.
“Using that technology is really helpful because it’s something they’re familiar with,” Van Atta says. “They're used to being on the receiving end of technology, but when they can create it, it's really great for them.”
Van Atta said students and educators can use AI to teach and learn in a more fun and interactive way.
“We try to encourage students to read and develop literacy skills, but at the same time, we don't think it's a bad idea to use tools like AI to help students. '' Van Atta said. .
As for parents and teachers, the district said the school is working to address plagiarism and security concerns.