In a recent article in the Philipsburg Mail, a group of local school board representatives and staff weighed in on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This subject is getting heightened attention here in Montana, nationwide and around-the-world. My strong interest in this topic reflects my service on the governing board of the Montana Digital Academy, the state’s online educational program, and my seat on the state legislature’s School Funding Interim Commission.
In the mid-February article, school reps and staff keyed in on the relevant integration issues for Montana’s schools. First, it seems we are experiencing a rush to get AI implemented “yesterday” due to the competitive educational challenges and economic opportunities. I’m pleased that our county’s educational leaders are asking the pertinent questions about the scaffolding on which AI is constructed: Are we poised to learn patterns or to develop more true, spatial understanding? What guarantees for students’ privacy need to be considered? Who codes this technology/who are the software engineers? Who detects inaccuracies? Are we adequately aware of “group think” as opposed to critical thinking skills?
Secondly, we can acknowledge that AI is already bringing a multitude of benefits to our modern communities including: health care advancements, weather predictions, and scientific research and technological progress. At the same time, we must define and consider the true nature of risks and safeguards. The Montana Office of Public Instruction guidelines note, as stated in the article, “AI must be used in ways that reinforce learning, not undermine it.”
