Exploring the Impact of AI in Education with Code.org’s Micah Kennedy (Part Two)

Introduction

In this installment of the podcast "They Are Waiting for Us" by Forbes Books, host Dr. Lisa Andrew continues her conversation with Micah Kennedy, a professional learning manager at Code.org. They delve deeper into the implications of AI in the educational landscape, focusing on teachers' roles as gatekeepers in implementing technology, particularly in computer science.

Teachers and Administrative Tasks

Micah highlights the urgency for education to embrace AI, emphasizing how it can significantly alleviate the administrative burdens that consume about 50% of a teacher's time. He posits that AI has the potential to take over tasks such as planning lessons, grading, and responding to emails, thereby allowing educators to refocus their efforts on direct student engagement—something many teachers aspire to do.

Individualized Support in Classrooms

The discussion pivots to the role of AI as a crucial ally in providing individualized support to students. As class sizes grow, it becomes challenging for teachers to cater to each student's needs. AI can facilitate personalized feedback in real-time, adjusting the difficulty of math problems, for instance, based on individual performance. This partnership between AI and teachers can enhance the educational experience, serving as a tool to support rather than replace traditional teaching methods.

Differentiating AI Roles in Education

The interview considers the designation of AI within the classroom. Micah compares AI to a "co-planner" rather than a co-instructor. He acknowledges that while AI may one day advance to a point where it takes on more instructional roles, for now, it excels in assisting with planning, lesson differentiation, and project generation. He encourages educators to engage with AI tools, which can provide unique resources tailored specifically for the educational sector.

Professional Development and AI Literacy

An integral part of Micah's mission is advocating for effective professional development that prioritizes teachers' needs. He critiques traditional models of professional development, recalling his own experiences as an educator and the inefficiency of time-heavy, irrelevant training sessions. Micah emphasizes that professional learning should focus on offering relevant, timely, and straightforward information that empowers educators to effectively utilize AI in their classrooms.

Addressing Concerns of Cheating and Plagiarism

The conversation also tackles the concerns associated with AI in education, particularly in terms of cheating and plagiarism. Micah argues that while these issues are prevalent with technology use, it largely resembles the challenges faced with previous innovations, such as the internet. He urges educators to recognize these parallels and to approach AI as a learning aid rather than a hindrance. Equipping students with the skills to effectively engage with AI can mitigate concerns surrounding academic integrity.

Shifting Perspectives on Assessment

Micah concludes with a call for transformative assessment practices in education. He envisions a shift away from standardized tests towards project-based assessments that prioritize critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving—skills that are increasingly vital in the modern world. He expresses optimism that educators can leverage AI to evolve how student success is measured, moving towards assessments that better reflect students' capabilities.

Conclusion

Micah invites educators and community members to explore the resources available through Code.org, including the newly launched AI 101 professional learning course tailored for teachers navigating AI's integration into their classrooms. This ongoing dialogue underscores the importance of preparing both educators and students for a future where technology and learning coexist harmoniously.

Keywords

AI, education, teachers, administrative tasks, individualized support, Co-planner, professional development, cheating, plagiarism, assessment, project-based learning.

FAQ

1. How can AI reduce teachers' administrative workload?
AI can automate tasks like lesson planning, grading, and email communication, allowing teachers to focus on student engagement and learning experiences.

2. What is the role of AI in providing individualized support?
AI can offer personalized feedback to students, adapting tasks based on their abilities, which is often unfeasible for teachers managing large classrooms.

3. How should educators approach AI in the classroom?
Educators should start using specific AI tools that cater to their needs. They should experiment with these tools before delving into more complex aspects like prompt engineering.

4. What are some concerns regarding cheating and plagiarism with AI?
Concerns center around the potential for students to misuse AI for assignments. However, it's essential to educate students on using AI as a learning tool rather than a shortcut.

5. How can assessment practices in education evolve with AI?
AI can facilitate a shift from traditional testing methods to more dynamic, project-based assessments, emphasizing critical thinking and collaboration.