What is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems designed to perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, such as understanding language, making decisions, or recognizing patterns.
AI is already woven into many everyday applications, including:
- Voice assistants such as Siri or Alexa
- Autocorrect on phones and computers
- Recommendation systems on streaming and shopping platforms (e.g., Netflix, Amazon)
AI tools range from simple features to advanced systems that analyze information, make predictions, or create content.
What is Generative AI?
Generative AI (GenAI) is a specific type of AI that can create new content, such as text, images, music, or computer code, based on what it has learned from large sets of information.
The most common generative AI tools today rely on Large Language Models (LLMs). These models are trained on billions of words and generate human-like responses to prompts. Examples include ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot.
Important Note: Generative AI tools don't "understand" content the way people do. Sometimes they can generate inaccurate or biased information. Always review and verify what AI tools produce.
Appropriate Use of Generative AI
Generative AI is not a replacement for student creativity or original writing. Instead, it serves as a tool to enhance and support learning.
As this technology continues to evolve, students may use generative AI in various ways, such as a personalized tutor to explain concepts and answer questions, an editor to provide feedback on writing, or a brainstorming partner to generate ideas for projects and assignments. However, generative AI should not be used to fully complete assignments or as a sole, credible source of information without proper fact-checking and verification.
As with any online tool, it is the user's responsibility to understand its appropriate use, benefits, and limitations. Students in Newport News Public Schools must use generative AI with their teacher's permission, within the guidelines of an assignment, and with academic integrity—honestly representing their use of AI and carefully reviewing all generated content before incorporating it into their work.
Additionally, students should be aware that any information entered into a generative AI system may be used to improve future models and is not private. Personal information should never be included in AI-generated prompts.
Bias & Misinformation in Generative AI
Generative AI is a powerful tool, but it's not perfect. Since it learns from human-created data, it can reflect biases—like stereotypes or cultural imbalances—without realizing it. This means AI might unintentionally reinforce unfair perspectives.
It can also generate misinformation. AI doesn't "know" facts; it predicts responses based on patterns, which sometimes leads to completely made-up or misleading information. That's why it's important to fact-check and not rely on AI as a sole source of truth.
AI also lacks human judgment and context, so its answers may oversimplify topics or miss key nuances. Teaching students to think critically, verify sources, and recognize AI's limitations helps them use it responsibly in learning.
How to Use AI Responsibly in Education
- Double-Check Info: Always cross-check AI-generated content with trusted sources to avoid mistakes or misinformation.
- Think Critically: Encourage students to question and analyze what AI produces, rather than just accepting it at face value.
- Watch for Bias: Help students recognize that AI can reflect biases from the data it learns from, and discuss how to spot them.
- Be Ethical: Talk about the importance of originality and avoiding plagiarism when using AI in their work.
- Balance with Human Insight: Use AI as a helpful tool, but remind students it's no substitute for their own thinking and creativity.
- Use Age-Appropriate Tools: Make sure the AI tools are a good fit for the students' age and developmental stage.
- Set Guidelines: Teach students how to interact with AI responsibly, including respectful and safe use online.
- Keep an Eye on Usage: Monitor how AI is being used to ensure it's enhancing learning, not taking over essential skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Generative AI safe for students to use?
Generative AI can be safe when used responsibly. However, it's important to monitor its usage, ensuring students engage with age-appropriate tools and are taught to critically assess AI-generated content. Source: (EdTech Magazine, AI in K-12 Education)
No, AI is a tool that can support teaching but cannot replace teachers. AI can help with tasks like grading or providing personalized learning, but it lacks the empathy, judgment, and real-world experience that teachers bring to the classroom. Source: (The Brookings Institution, AI and the Future of Education)
How can Generative AI help students learn?
AI can assist students by offering personalized learning experiences, helping them generate ideas, offering feedback on writing, or explaining complex topics in different ways. It can also help with creative tasks like art, music, and writing, providing students with new tools to explore their ideas. Source: (EdTech Magazine, AI for Learning)
Yes, AI can reflect biases present in the data it's trained on. This could lead to unfair or skewed content. It's important to teach students how to recognize these biases and use AI critically. Source: (MIT Technology Review, The Problem with AI Bias)
How do we ensure students use AI responsibly?
Students should be taught how to use AI ethically, such as avoiding plagiarism, verifying AI-generated information, and recognizing AI's limitations. Schools can create guidelines for responsible use and encourage critical thinking. Source: (Common Sense Media, Ethical AI Use in Schools)
Should AI be used in assessments and exams?
AI can be helpful in formative assessments to provide feedback or assist with practice problems, but it shouldn't replace students' own learning or be relied on in high-stakes testing. Educators should ensure assessments are designed to measure individual understanding, not just AI-generated responses. Source: (The Brookings Institution, AI in Education and Assessment)
How can parents and educators prevent misuse of AI?
Parents and educators can set clear guidelines for using AI, ensuring it's used as a learning tool rather than a shortcut. They should educate students about the importance of originality, critical thinking, and the ethical use of technology while also monitoring AI usage to keep it safe and appropriate. Source: (EdTech Magazine, Guiding Responsible AI Use)
