AI's education explosion leaves teachers in the dark

AI use in K-12 classrooms is becoming unavoidable as students expect to use AI in college and the technology is already influencing college choices. Many teachers report using AI at work, yet most have not received formal guidance on applying it. Large majorities report no guidance on using AI for feedback or coaching, and for one-on-one instruction or tutoring. Many also report no guidance on using AI to analyze student learning patterns, handle administrative tasks, grade or provide feedback on assignments, or supplement instruction. Guidance is not one-size-fits-all because elementary and high school teachers use AI differently. Districts often treat AI as optional, similar to other tools, rather than providing structured support and capacity building.

"“It's not a question of whether or not our students are going to be using it; it's a question of how well our educators are supported and receive the ongoing professional learning and capacity building to be able to be confident in it.” A growing share of K-12 students already expect they'll have to know how to use AI in college, and the tech is already making college students change majors."

"“Some K-12 teachers say they are using AI on the job, but around eight in ten say they've received no formal guidance on applying the tools their work, according to a new report from Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation.” “Around 7 in 10 said they received no guidance on using AI to get feedback or coaching on their teaching (71%) and providing one-on-one instruction or tutoring (69%).”"

"“A majority also reported receiving no guidance on using AI to analyze patterns in student learning, do administrative work, grade or provide feedback on assignments or assessments, or supplement instruction.” “Between the lines: There is no one-size-fits-all guidance for bringing AI into a classroom.”"

"“The way an elementary school teacher might be using AI looks very different from a high school AP math teacher,” says Arman Jaffer, the CEO and founder of Brisk Teaching, an AI education browser extension designed to embed in a teacher's workflow. “The horizontal, expansive nature of AI technology makes it difficult for districts to manage guidance,” he says. “Often, that's left administrators treating AI like an optional tool, not unlike Canva or Quizlet.”"

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